London woman who threw NYE party for more than 100 people could face £10,000 fine
Organiser caught after officers on patrol came across group trying to get into event
A woman who threw a New Year’s Eve party in London for more than 100 people is facing a £10,000 fine.
The organiser was caught “deliberately flouting clear rules” when police on patrol in Kensington dispersed a large crowd gathered outside an address shortly before midnight.
Police said the group appeared to be attempting to get into the party on Exhibition Road but were barred from entering.
Believing there was an unlawful gathering inside the property, the officers repeatedly tried to gain entry but the occupants refused to cooperate, th Scotland Yard said.
Officers visited the property again on 4 January to inform the organiser her actions had breached coronavirus rules under the Health Protection Relations 2020 and that she had been reported for consideration of the maximum fixed penalty notice of £10,000.
Acting inspector Ganesh Rasaratnam, from the Metropolitan Police's Central West Basic Command Unit, said: “We are in the middle of a pandemic, and restrictions have been put in place to keep our families, friends and communities safe.
“The organiser, and those who attended, deliberately breached the restrictions and decided that the rules did not apply to them.
“We will continue to take tough action against those who think they are above the law and put others in danger with this sort of reckless behaviour.
“Thankfully, many people across London have put much of their own lives on hold as they do their bit to follow the guidance and reduce Covid infections.
“The large majority have behaved admirably and should be proud of themselves for helping play their part as we all fight this health crisis.”
People in London are increasingly likely to face fines for breaking any coronavirus restrictions, Scotland Yard said on Wednesday, warning of “stricter” enforcement during the new lockdown.
Officers have been given instructions to issue fines “more quickly” to anyone committing “obvious, wilful and serious” breaches of the rules.