The host of a Halloween party in Saanich received a hefty fine after refusing to obey COVID-19 safety regulations in B.C.
In a statement released Monday morning, Cst. Markus Anastasiades said a homeowner in the 3900 block of Lasalle Street was issued a $2,300 fine under the COVID Related
Measures Act (CRMA) related to Gatherings and Events on Sunday morning after throwing a Halloween party on Saturday night.
See also: New Dr. Henry health order restricts household gatherings to ‘safe six’ in B.C.
The ticket was issued after police responded to a noise complaint at the homeowner’s property at 2:45 a.m. on November 1, where they discovered a large party in progress.
Officers spoke to the homeowner and realized there were far more than the permitted six people at the party.
Despite a warning from police about the Provincial Health Officer order that prohibits such gatherings during the second wave of the pandemic, the party continued.
The spooky affair was eventually shut down by police, and officers say about 30 people were seen leaving the residence.
“Our officers responded to several noise complaints over the weekend regarding gatherings in private homes,” said Anastasiades.
“This was the only incident which a large private gathering was found to be held.”
The CRMA allows peace officers to issue violation tickets to hosts of gatherings specifically for “holding an event in a private residence (indoors or outdoors) with more than 6 guests who do not live there,” for the amount of $2,300.
