Grand Forks man fined, facing possible charges after refusing to shut down crowded party

RCMP in Grand Forks, B.C., says a man has been fined and could be facing criminal charges after hostinga loud and crowded house partyover the Thanksgiving long weekend.

Officers were called to ahome in the 4900-block of Vernon Street ataround 7:30 p.m. PT Saturday, following several noise complaints from neighbours, according to anRCMP news release.

Callers reported hearing live music coming fromthe backyard of the home, the statement said.

RCMP said when police arrivedthey found more than 60 people at the property, including a live band, none of whomwerefollowing physical distancing requirementsor wearing face masks.

When the the host refused to shut the party down, hewas fined a total of $460 under the COVID RelatedMeasures Act.

Later that same night, officers returned to the home when noise complaints from neighbours continued, the release said.

As a result, RCMP said officers are now investigating the host for mischief and will be forwarding charge recommendations to the B.C. Prosecution Service for assessment.