Newfoundland woman held in jail for refusing to self-isolate

The 53-year old woman was reported to police by neighbours, who complained that she was not self-isolating, per the Public Health Protection and Promotion Act that she do so.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary's Const. James Cadigan noted that of the more than 400 complaints made about people refusing to self-isolate, 27 of these were resolved by speaking with the person and notifying them of their responsibility to compy with public health orders.

Cadigan said that "If you're going to put our community at risk, we will follow up on those measures." There is a public reporting system in place that residents can use to inform on those neighbours who do not go along with the public health directives.

Because the Corner Brook woman refused to comply, she was held in jail overnight. She may face a fine between $500 and $2,500, and could be imprisoned for up to six months.