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Evictions Continue In Forsyth County Despite National Moratorium

WFDD file photo.

Courts in Winston-Salem continue to move forward with evictions. This comes after a national moratorium was issued on evictions designed to halt them for reasons of non-payment.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ordered the moratorium in early September to help protect against the spread of the coronavirus. 

To be eligible for the eviction protection, tenants must meet certain financial and employment criteria

Renters must also sign a sworn affidavit confirming the criteria applies to them, under penalty of perjury.

In an email obtained by WFDD, Forsyth County Clerk of Superior Court Renita Thompkins Linville says that the court's position is that the clerk does not have judicial authority to determine whether a tenant is a “covered person” under the CDC order. And she says she is simply carrying out her duty. 

WFDD has reached out to the office of Linville and has not yet received comment.

Court dockets show that eviction hearings have certainly continued — as many as 47 in one day.

An analysis by the UNC School of Government on the CDC order finds there is still much to be understood about how it works, and that judicial officials may have some flexibility in terms of interpretation.

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in North Carolina, visit our Live Updates blog here. WFDD wants to hear your stories — connect with us and let us know what you're experiencing.

Eddie Garcia is WFDD’s News Director. He is responsible for planning coverage, editing stories, and leading an award-winning news team as it serves the station’s 32-county listening area. He joined WFDD as an audio production intern in 2007 and went on to hold various roles, including producer, Triad Arts Weekend co-host, reporter, and managing editor. When he’s not working, Eddie enjoys spending time with his family, playing guitar, and watching films.

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