With the COVID-19 pandemic requiring millions to stay indoors and, if going outdoors, to wear face masks, law enforcement is facing some unique challenges. Some criminals are using these new face mask recommendations in an attempt to hide their identities while committing illegal activities. With so many Tennessee citizens wearing surgical masks, homemade fabric masks, or bandanas, it can be difficult to identify who is on a property legally and who isn’t.

Former FBI agent Bryanna Fox explains the phenomenon of the anonymity a face covering provides. She says that “people who wear masks feel more enabled and empowered to do things that they normally wouldn’t have done if their face was seen in public.” Fox even points out that for individuals who would otherwise never commit a crime, wearing coronavirus face masks “could be an opportunity that they take up because they feel more protected.”

Even over in Europe, drug dealers are trying to blend in with essential workers by donning masks and hi-vis suits and attempting to smuggle their products in and out of borders.

Here in Tennessee, the use of face masks is recommended in just about every public place in order to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

What’s important to remember is that we’re all in this together. The way we do things has changed, and it’s crucial everyone’s rights are protected. Ensure you follow our state stay-at-home orders as much as possible, for your own safety and the safety of others.

But in the event you need our help with any charges, the attorneys at Delius & McKenzie, PLLC, are here to help. We fight for clients in Sevierville, Seymour, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding Tennessee locations. To schedule a consultation, call us at 865-428-8780 or fill out our contact form to review your case.