A 51-year-old man has been issued a fine for violating B.C. public health regulations after police attended an out-of-control Halloween party.
Just before 11:30 p.m. on Saturday (Oct. 31), Prince George RCMP received a report of several people fighting in front of a residence on Regents Crescent.
Multiple officers attended and found about 50 youth at the South Fort George-area house party, many of which fled the scene once police arrived.
Police add those that stayed were mostly uncooperative, but several were still fighting, including one youth was found in possession of bear spray and another that assaulted a police officer.
A search of the home for public safety found two youths unconscious in the basement and one of them was bleeding from the mouth.
Paramedics were then called to the scene to treat the two very intoxicated youth and both were transported to hospital for possible alcohol poisoning.
The homeowner found inside was also intoxicated and uncooperative and, as a result, was issued a $2,300 fine for violating B.C.'s Public Health Officer's order for gatherings.
Mounties say further charges are possible.
"Our priority continues to be community safety during this provincial state of emergency" says Cpl. Craig Douglass, spokesperson for the Prince George RCMP, in a news release, who adds some youth were transported home and released into the care of their guardians.
"For many reasons, events such as this put the safety of those attending at risk. We ask that you don't attend these events, and we ask parents and guardians to prevent your children from attending these events."
RCMP say the public can gather or visit safely without the need to ignore B.C.'s COVID-19 public health orders.
"We highly encourage everyone to do so for their safety and the safety of others."
While the fines are one additional tool for police officers to help ensure people are following provincial health guidelines, Prince George RCMP says officers will also continue to educate people about the guidelines and the impacts during this pandemic.
Throughout B.C., local bylaw officers have been given the task to help ensure compliance with the Provincial Health Officer's orders and to remind people in public spaces to physically distance.
If you are concerned about compliance with the Provincial Health Officer's orders, you can contact the City of Prince George's bylaw office at 250-561-7600 or by calling 3-1-1.
