LOCAL NEWS — When it comes to the Stay at Home Order Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued on Thursday, Metro Sheriff Tyler Hatfield says he and his staff fully intend to enforce that order in Moore County.

“It’s a serious situation and we need to make sure our community takes it seriously,” Sheriff Hatfield said.

When asked how he’ll decided which business are essential, he says he’ll look to the Governor’s office for guidance when necessary.

“I’m aware that the employees at Jack Daniel have been deemed essential by the state due to the adverse effects on the state’s agricultural industry should the distillery shut down,” he said. “We also know that folks need to buy groceries, get food, and visit their doctors.”

According to Executive Order 23, examples of essential business include grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, financial institution, medical facilities, and public utilities.

Citizens are still encourage to exercise as long as they maintain social distancing guidelines. Driving is permitted for essential travel only.

The Governor’s order will stay in effect until 11:59 p.m. on April 14. Sheriff Hatfield says his deputies will issue warnings and eventually citations if necessary. Ignoring the order is Class A misdemeanor, which in Tennessee can carry up to an 11 months, 29 days prison sentence and up to $2,500 fine.

Citizens who have questions should contact the Metro Sheriff’s Department non-emergency line at 931-759-7323. •

{The Lynchburg Times is the only independently owned and operated newspaper in Moore County … covering Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, the Lynchburg Music Fest, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}