On April 7, 2020 at 11:44 p.m. Springfield Police Officers were dispatched to a gas station at 820 E. Battlefield Rd in response to citizen complaints that a large group of motorcyclists were driving erratically, loitering, and were possibly intoxicated. When officers arrived, they witnessed a group of individuals in the parking lot.
After speaking with the individuals, officers could not determine any essential reason for them to be out during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Because of this, all seven of the individuals present were issued citations for violating the City’s “Stay at Home” order that is in place to address the health and safety issues related to COVID-19.
A recent News-Leader story by columnist Steve Pokin related to this incident created questions about any restrictions regarding motorcycles, because the individuals cited happened to be on motorcycles. As we have noted in the past, Springfield Police Officers are not going to stop drivers solely to determine if they are engaged in essential activity. The “Stay at Home” order, does not restrict any specific mode of transportation, including motorcycles, to or from essential activities. However, drivers are reminded they should only be on the roadways when absolutely necessary.
Any further questions on what is considered an “essential” activity, please contact the COVID-19 hotline 874-1211.
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