The city government of Newark is threatening criminal prosecutions for those found to be spreading false information about covid. 

If this is true I’m not really comfortable with that approach. Especially the Stalinistic request for people to turn in their digital neighbors.

https://nextdoor.com/agency-post/nj/newark/newark-police-department/public-safety-director-ambrose-warns-against-false-reporting-of-coronavirus-in-newark-via-social-media-139923492/ - https://nextdoor.com/agency-post/nj/newark/newark-police-department/public-safety-director-ambrose-warns-against-false-reporting-of-coronavirus-in-newark-via-social-media-139923492/

Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose strongly urges the public against posting false information on social media regarding the presence of the coronavirus in the City of Newark.

“Any false reporting of the coronavirus in our city will result in criminal prosecution,” Director Ambrose said. “We are putting forth every investigative effort to identify anyone making false allegations on social media to ensure that any posted misinformation is immediately addressed.”

Director Ambrose adds that misleading information on social media may cause an unnecessary public alarm.

“The State of New Jersey has laws regarding causing a false public alarm and we will enforce those laws,” Ambrose said. “Individuals who make any false or baseless reports about the coronavirus in Newark can set off a domino effect that can result in injury to residents and visitors and affect schools, houses of worship, businesses and entire neighborhoods,” he added.

Director Ambrose thanks the public in advance for its cooperation. He also urges anyone with information regarding any criminal or suspicious activities to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.

Anonymous tips may also be made using the Police Division’s website at: http://www.newarkpd.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: rgb(50, 107, 177); cursor: pointer; - www.newarkpd.org or through our Smartphone App available at iTunes and Google Play. Search Newark Police Division to download the App.