A North Carolina business owner has been criminally charged with a misdemeanor after encouraging customers not to wear a mask inside her business, putting those who visit at risk of contracting COVID-19.
Wendell General Store owner Regina Harmon in Wendell, North Carolina, was cited Wednesday with one count of aiding and abetting the violation of an executive order. Police said the signs posted by Harmon violate Governor Roy Cooper’s mask-wearing order, which was imposed to preserve public health during the coronavirus pandemic.
An anonymous person called a tip into Wendell police about the store having the signs up stating: “Masks not required, exceptions to every rule” and “we request that you not wear a face covering, for the safety of our customers and staff.” I wouldn’t be surprised if they cited her because the last part of her sign, “we request that you not wear a face covering, for the safety of our customers and staff,” is stupid and doesn’t make any sense.
Wendell Police Chief Bill Carter said that his officers investigated the business, and then consulted with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office, who decided to file charges against Harmon.
Harmon charge is a class 2 misdemeanor, and could result in a fine up to $1,000.
