Maryland Man Ignores COVID-19 Emergency Order, Hosts Bonfire For 60 People

Charles County Sheriff's Office

A Maryland man was arrested after violating the state’s COVID-19 (coronavirus) emergency order twice in one week.

Shawn Marshall Myers, age 41, was arrested by the Charles County Sheriff’s Office on Friday (March 27) after hosting a bonfire with 60 guests in attendance. Under Maryland’s coronavirus emergency order, all gatherings of ten or more people are banned.

This was Myers’ second time violating the order, with his previous violation occurring on March 22.

In a press release, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office states that a “large gathering” was held at Myers’ residence on this date, and officers were dispatched to break it up. “Myers…was advised of the emergency order and he agreed to disperse the crowd,” read the press release from the Sheriff’s Office.

However, Myers clearly didn’t take the officers’ warning to heart, since he turned around and hosted his large bonfire just five days later.

This time, Myers was not as cooperative. The press release from the Sheriff’s Office says he “refused multiple requests to comply.” Officers then arrested Myers and charged him for violating the state’s emergency order.

According to FOX News, penalties for violating Maryland’s emergency order include “up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine.” No word yet what penalty Myers will face, if any.

Remember, during this time it’s extremely important to practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings, and only leave home for essential trips. If you do have to leave the house, maintain six feet between you and anyone else.

Also, be sure to keep all workspaces, surfaces, and belongings sanitary. This includes your groceries and takeout food.

If you’d like to learn more about how to disinfect and properly handle your groceries/takeout, be sure to watch the video below.