Man arrested, $17K in fines issued after "makeshift nightclub" found at Vancouver penthouse

Jan 31 2021, 7:32 pm

One man has been arrested and $17,000 in fines have been issued after police discovered a “makeshift nightclub” in a downtown Vancouver penthouse.

Vancouver Police said officers first launched an investigation one week ago after a witness reported a large party inside an apartment near Richards Street and Georgia Street.

Police handed out numerous fines to a man who was allegedly working as a doorman at the party, but the host refused to open the door.

After two more large parties were held this weekend, officers returned with a search warrant in the early hours of January 31.

Police said the 1,100-square-foot apartment was “packed” with people, and appeared to be running as a nightclub and show lounge.

“Our officers found 78 people inside the three-level apartment, and none of them were wearing masks,” said Sergeant Steve Addison. “There were menus, tables, point-of-sale terminals, and cash tills.”

The 42-year-old party host was arrested under the Public Health Act, and each of his guests was issued a $230 ticket for failing to wear a face covering.

In total, police issued more than $17,000 in fines to the 77 guests for attending a non-compliant event,  contrary to BC’s Emergency Program Act.

Social gatherings of any size are currently banned across British Columbia.

“Let this be a lesson to anyone who thinks the rules don’t apply to them,” Addison said.

“If you are caught hosting or attending a party during the pandemic, and continue to break the rules, you could face stiff fines or wind up in jail.”

Zoe DemarcoZoe Demarco

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