File: 20-33612
Victoria, BC – Patrol officers arrested a party guest and served him a $230 fine early this morning for violating the COVID-19 Related Measures Act (CRMA).
Shortly after midnight on August 23st, Patrol officers attended to a suite in a multi-unit residential building in the 1000-block of Fort Street for a noise disturbance. Patrol officers had attended this suite the night before for a large gathering in which an estimated 40-60 people attended. At that time, officers issued the host a $2,300 fine under section 2 of the CRMA for contravention of the Provincial Health Officer Gathering and Events Order. A $300 victim surcharge levy was included in the $2,300 fine.
This morning, officers encountered a group of 15 people in the one-bedroom suite. Officers advised the host and guests that the party was over. The group was compliant, except for one guest who refused to cooperate and leave. Patrol officers arrested the man for obstructing a peace officer and served him with a $230 violation ticket under section 6 of the CRMA, for abusive or belligerent behaviour at a social gathering. A $30 victim surcharge levy was included in the $200 fine.
The guest was released on scene and left the area. No additional violation tickets were issued.
For more information on the Provincial Health Officer Gathering and Events Order visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-order-gatherings-events.pdf
VicPD will continue to take a measured approach in our enforcement of the CRMA and remind the public of the absolute importance of following the guidelines set forth by the Provincial Health Officer. Please consider the safety of the public and the safety of our officers who are called to attend these gatherings.
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