Strict policies are going into effect in Newark to stop the spread of the coronavirus in the state’s biggest city.

 

Mayor Raz Baraka live-streamed his announcement Monday, announcing the strict new rules and enforcing a lockdown, all in the name of flattening the curve in the city.

Mayor Baraka says he has seen too many people ignoring social distancing protocols and continue to congregate in groups.

 

The overall message is if you're not in Newark as an essential worker, then just stay home. If you’re not an essential business, don’t open. Any person or any business not following the orders will get cited, fined, or shuttered.

About 150 police officers are devoted to enforcing the restrictions, ticketing anyone not following them. As of this morning, 161 people have received summons and fines. Fifteen businesses have also been shuttered.