Alton Mayor’s Wife’s Bar Violation of Stay-at-Home Order is Now a Meme

Staff

5 years ago

The wife of Alton, Illinois Mayor Brant Walker has captured the attention of national and global media after she was cited for being at a bar just two days following her husband’s order for police to strictly enforce a statewide stay-at-home order issued by the governor in response to the coronavirus.

Some Metro East residents have already turned the mayor’s ordeal into a meme.

Shannon Walker was among a group of people socializing at Hiram Tavern early Sunday when police broke up the party that violated the provisions of the order.

The mayor issued a statement on Monday, saying in part, “… I was also made aware that my wife was in attendance at this prohibited social gathering. I instructed the police chief to treat her as he would any citizen violating the stay-at-home order and to ensure that she received no special treatment.”

The mayor went on to say that his wife is an adult capable of making her own decisions, and in this instance, she exhibited a stunning lack of judgement. “I am embarrassed by this incident and apologize to the citizens of Alton for any embarrassment this incident may cause our city” he said.

“My first and most important priority is the safety and well-being of the citizens of Alton,” he added. “We are in the midst of a national public health crisis, and I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure that your health is protected, including enforcing the governor’s statewide stay-at-home” order.”

The violation is a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of $2,500.