$2,300.00 fine issued after late night gathering at a business in West Vancouver

A West Vancouver resident has been issued a fine under the Covid-related Measures Act, after he was found to be hosting an unlawful gathering, contrary to provincial health orders.

On January 8, 2021 at 11:20 pm, WVPD officers responded to the 1400 blk of Clyde Ave after a report of a loud party. According to the complainant, they could hear loud music and voices coming from a ground-level business. When officers attended, they spoke with three intoxicated individuals who were standing outside. Officers could hear further voices from inside the business.

When questioned, the three individuals denied that a party was taking place, and one man said the others were his clients. They refused to provide any further information as to the number of people inside.

Given the circumstances, officers determined that an unlawful gathering was taking place. “This seems to be a situation where the attendees thought because they were in business together, that they were not subject to the restrictions as set out in the provincial gatherings and events order,” said Cst. Kevin Goodmurphy. “While work-related meetings are allowed under certain circumstances, given what officers observed at the scene, they opted to take enforcement action.

“We all have a responsibility to avoid unnecessary gatherings in order to slow the spread of Covid-19.” The 40-year-old host was issued a $2,300.00 fine for “Contravention of the Gatherings and Events Order.”

Because the host was not cooperative with police, and refused to ask the remaining guests to leave, police remained in the area. They later observed three guests eventually exit the front of the business.

Since March 1, 2020, West Vancouver Police have issued 8 tickets under the Covid-related Measures Act and 10 tickets under the Quarantine Act.