Presently, there are approximately a dozen counties in Ohio which are under the Governor’s mask order. This order is active in “code red” counties – those who are experiencing a high level of COVID-19 cases. The Governor has indicated that obtaining compliance with the order, rather than penalizing offenders, is the primary goal. However, if compliance cannot be achieved through a warning, a misdemeanor citation and summons can be issued. A violation of the Governor’s mask order is currently set as a criminal misdemeanor of the second degree, carrying up to 90 days in jail and/or up to a $ 750 fine. These criminal penalties stand in stark contrast to some local city orders requiring masks. For example, the City of Cleveland has a mask order that is very similar to the Governor’s order. However, the City of Cleveland mask order requires a warning before a citation can be issued. Even if a citation is issued, the penalties are civil in nature – a $ 25 fine for individuals, and a $ 1000 fine for businesses on a first violation, and a $ 3000 fine for businesses with subsequent violations.
Federal Trial of Sean Combs Wraps Up
The federal criminal trial of rapper and music producer, Sean Combs, has wrapped up in Lower Manhattan, New York. Mr. Combs has been charged with Racketeering Conspiracy, Sex Trafficking by Force or Coercion, and Transportation to Engage in Prostitution. His accusers...
