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Forsyth County holds virtual town hall to answer questions surrounding COVID-19

Officials address increase in domestic violence, gun sales, and what businesses are considered essential.

CUMMING, Ga. — Forsyth County officials answered questions regarding the new shelter-in-place order during a virtual town hall on Monday.

The Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce hosted the event which featured Sheriff Ron Freeman and Director of Emergency Management Chris Grimes. Chamber Chairman Chris Patterson lead the discussion with questions submitted by residents.

From questions on the recent increase in gun sales and domestic violence to more clarification regarding essential businesses, Sheriff Freeman and Director Grimes fielded questions for a half-hour.

RELATED: Cumming issues new social distancing ordinance after rescinding previous order

"Are you concerned about the uptick of gun sales and domestic violence?" asked Patterson.

"Gun sales...absolutely not. I love the idea of good citizens who hopefully get some training...as long as their law-abiding, I'm all for that," responded Freeman.

The sheriff going on to say, "domestic violence. Yes, I'm concerned about it. We are working really hard...to make sure we can get people into safe environments when we find out what's going on."

RELATED: Domestic violence calls increase as people shelter in place during COVID-19 outbreak

Grimes encouraged residents to let first responders know if they or someone in their home is not feeling well, in response to 'how can the public help?'.

"We need to make sure we're keeping our staff safe and have them put on the proper personal protective equipment before we get there," said Grimes.

Kemp signed the executive order for a statewide shelter-in-place last week. The order went into effect on April 3 and asked residents to practice social distancing while minimizing travel. 

RELATED: Shelter-in-place leaves lots of leeway for Georgians

The order allows Georgians to travel to purchase food and medicine. It also allows many businesses to maintain “minimum basic operations” as long as they comply with social distancing restrictions. 

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