Coronavirus in Oklahoma: Violations of 'safer-at-home' order can result in misdemeanor, AG says

Oklahomans can be charged with a misdemeanor for violating the executive order Gov. Kevin Stitt updated on Tuesday, said state Attorney General Mike Hunter. 

The decision on whether to charge someone will be left up to the discretion of law enforcement, Hunter said Thursday in a news release. 

Hunter urged law enforcement officers to take a gentler approach whenever possible. 

Officers, when confronted with violations, have been counseled to inform and persuade people by emphasizing the gravity of the current public health emergency, he said. 

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“The guidelines in the governor’s executive order call for Oklahomans to act in the best interest of their fellow citizens,” Hunter said. “What we are calling on more than anything, is for Oklahomans to be good citizens, good neighbors and comply with the governor’s executive order, as well as the ordinances of local governments, to protect one another from this deadly illness."

The governor's executive order does not impose martial law in Oklahoma, Hunter said. 

On Tuesday, Stitt reissued an executive order that imposes the following:

• Adults over age 65 and people with underlying medical conditions are required to stay home until April 30, with the exception of "essential" errands.

• Gatherings of 10 or more people are prohibited.

• Medical providers are required to postpone all elective surgeries, minor medical procedures and dental procedures until April 7.

• Nonessential businesses in counties with confirmed cases of COVID-19 must remain closed until April 16.

• Visitors are prohibited at Oklahoma nursing homes, long-term care facilities and retirement homes.