Florida Sheriff Forbids His Employees And Visitors From Wearing Face Masks

A Florida sheriff has banned his employees from wearing face masks despite an increase in coronavirus deaths in the state.

It’s clear Florida won’t be free of coronavirus any time soon, and face coverings can help protect residents from catching and spreading the disease, but Woods would apparently rather leave people at risk.

Woods claimed that the decision was made in regards to ‘the current events when it comes to the sentiment and/or hatred toward law enforcement in our country today’, saying the mask ban would allow for ‘clear communication’ and ‘identification purposes of any individual walking into a lobby.’

There were some exceptions to Woods’ rule, with the email explaining deputies could wear masks ‘while working at the courthouse, the jail, in public schools, in hospitals and in dealing with people suspected of being infected with COVID-19 or at high risk of complications from the disease.’

However, he pointed out the ban was ‘no longer a debate nor is it up for discussion.’

Woods concluded:

Please keep in mind this entire pandemic is fluid and constantly changing the way things are done. However, my orders will be followed or my actions will be swift to address.

Woods made it clear he anticipated some confusion to come from his ruling, telling employees that, if they’re asked why they’re not wearing a mask by a member of the public, ‘you will politely and professionally tell them “I am not required to wear a mask nor will I, per the Order of the Sheriff” and then walk away from them.’

The sheriff wrote that he could ‘already hear the whining’ from those who disagree with his ban, but said he made the decision after considering it for two weeks. He also claimed to have found as many professionals disregarding masks as the number of professionals encouraging them.

The World Health Organization continues to encourage the use of masks to help protect people from the virus.