Racine sheriff will not enforce Evers' 'overreaching measures'

The Brillion News

RACINE - Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling issued a press release on Friday, April 17, calling the latest emergency order issued by the governor and the state Department of Health Services "overreaching measures" and unconstitutional.

"Wisconsin law gives the Governor and the Wisconsin DHS the authority to develop emergency measures and enforce rules and orders to protect the public during a health crisis," Sheriff Schmaling wrote. "However, state law does not have the power to supersede or suspend the Constitutional rights of American citizens."

He said that is his position on enforcement of the public health emergency orders.

"The overreaching measures taken by State government will have dire lifetime consequences for businesses, homeowners, and families. I took an oath to uphold the constitutional rights of our citizens and I can not in good faith participate in the destruction of Racine County businesses or interfere in the freedoms granted to all of us by our Constitution," the sheriff said.

Schmaling said businesses need to be allowed to operate, and trusts that they will decide how to do so while accommodating for the safety or their employees and guests.

He encouraged people to commit to health safety measures while allowing private businesses to survive.

"COVID-19 isn’t going to go away any time soon. I strongly encourage all of us to start thinking of our new 'normal' way of doing business. Let’s get Racine County back on its feet again and move ahead," Schmaling wrote. "I understand the seriousness of the current health situation and I urge all Racine County citizens to continue to be responsible and to follow the social distancing, mask and hygiene recommendations of the CDC and the Wisconsin DHS. Let’s continue to look out for our neighbors and those less fortunate around us. Brighter days are ahead."