Respects paid — and distances kept

Published 2:58 pm Monday, April 13, 2020

THOMASVILLE — Two law enforcement agencies responded over the weekend to gatherings reportedly in violation of coronavirus-related governor’s orders about social distancing and 10 or fewer at a gathering.

Thomasville Police Department officers reported no violations at three Saturday graveside funerals observed by officers.

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One service had 10 present, one had five and one had 30, said Police Chief Troy Rich. At the latter service, eight people were under the tent, with the remainder in vehicles.

“The majority stayed in their cars and paid their respects that way,” the chief said.

Rich commended funeral homes for abiding by virus rulings.

The Thomas County Sheriff’s Office observed five weekend graveside services in Thomasville and in unincorporated areas.

Social distancing, mask use and people staying in vehicles were observed.

“Everybody followed the guidelines,” said sheriff’s office public information officer Capt. Steven Jones.

Deputies were called to a gathering at a church during the weekend.

“When deputies checked on it, everyone was outside and practicing social distancing,” Jones said.

At the Georgia State Patrol’s Thomasville Post 12, troopers received a call about an alleged large crowd outside a convenience store.

“When the trooper got there, there were about six people spread out inside and at gas pumps,” said Sgt. Russ Covington.