The city of Sarasota is authorizing the Sarasota Police Department to disperse gatherings of 10 or more people

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SARASOTA — If you do not voluntarily comply with the city of Sarasota’s social distancing guidelines, you could be cited for a second-degree misdemeanor.

That announcement came Tuesday as Sarasota city officials grapple with what to do with people who are still gathering in groups of 10 or more people.

“We want and expect the community to voluntarily comply during this public health challenge, and for the most part we are seeing that,” said City Manager Tom Barwin.

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“All should have gotten the message by now, and it’s simply time to be good neighbors and responsible citizens for the community’s good,” he said.

On Tuesday the city of Sarasota extended its declaration of a citywide public health emergency through April 3, authorizing the Sarasota Police Department to disperse gatherings of 10 or more people.

It also “emphasizes” the need for voluntary compliance with social distancing guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

These citations will be a last resort and will be issued on a case-by-case basis, said SPD Spokeswoman Genevieve Judge.

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“We really don’t want to cite anyone, but if it does come to that, this is an option we can use,” Judge said.

Patrol officers will primarily work to educate residents about CDC guidelines, she said.

Residents are strongly urged to stay at home except for essential activities such as shopping for necessary supplies, working, taking care of others or responsibly exercising outdoors. Social distancing guidelines, proper hand washing and keeping a 6-foot distance from others should be observed at all times in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.

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