In response to several areas of rioting and looting in Southern California over the weekend, Riverside County officials declared a local emergency and set a countywide curfew beginning tonight, June 1, at 6 p.m. through June 2 at 6 a.m. Traveling to and from work, seeking or giving emergency care, credentialed media, and homeless persons shelter in place are exempt.
The order was signed today by County Executive Officer and Director of Emergency Services George Johnson, in coordination with law enforcement officials, and applies to all cities and unincorporated areas. The curfew is intended to prevent any potential acts of destruction and violence at protest sites. Law enforcement will continue to serve the community by conducting patrols and responding to calls for service.
“We want the community to be able to peacefully assemble and exercise their first amendment rights,” said Johnson. “We must also take action to protect our community from threats of rioting and chaos. If you plan to visit a protest today, we urge you to do so peacefully and return home at the time of the curfew.”
Public health officials also remind the community that while gathering for peaceful protests, community members should wear a face covering and maintain six feet between others to thwart the spread of coronavirus.
Members of the public can call 2-1-1 for more information.
