WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. — Officials at a North Carolina beach town are increasing fines for people who violate beach closures in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials in Wrightsville Beach say if people are caught on the beach in violation of the public beach closures, they could face fines of up $650 and potential court costs.
Before the change, offenders faced a misdemeanor that carried a $150 fine.
Town leaders passed an ordinance allowing police to charge anyone caught on the beach with a $500 civil penalty up to the officer’s discretion.
Last weekend, Wrightsville Beach police issued 18 citations to people violating the beach closure rule.
