As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the City is making good on its promise to enforce social gathering restrictions at nuisance parties.

Kingston Police published a press release on Sept. 11 detailing its efforts—in conjunction with the City of Kingston; Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox and Addington (KFL&A) Public Health; and the University—to address high-risk nuisance behaviour in the community. 

Since Aug. 28, enforcement partners have responded to 307 noise complaints, 255 of which were from the University district. According to the release, Kingston Police has issued 69 Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs) “for offences including, noise violations, nuisance parties and failure to comply with an emergency order.”

They’ve also laid 11 Highway Traffic Act charges, 22 Liquor License Act charges, and two criminal charges of theft and mischief. 

“We will be working closely with our community partners – KFL&A Public Health, the City of Kingston, and the Kingston Police to continue to deliver strong and consistent safety messages to students over the coming days and weeks,” Principal Patrick Deane said in the press release. 

READ MORE: City to enforce restrictions on social gatherings during pandemic

According to the statement, enforcement officers are using a tiered response strategy to respond to increased calls in the University district. Kingston Police special constables have also been deployed. 

“Additional resources have been allocated for enhanced enforcement to deter high-risk behaviours, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Antje McNeely, Kingston Police chief, said. “We all need to do our part to keep our community safe.”

Under the City’s emergency order, residents are still required to remain physically distant from one another while in City parks. Those who don’t comply may face enforcement action.

READ MORE: City closes Gord Downie Pier & Breakwater Park Beach Area

“Enforcement is an integral component of preventing the spread of COVID-19,” Kieran Moore, KFL&A Public Health chief medical officer, said. “Together we can limit the spread of this virus.”

Residents can also be charged for violating the Nuisance Party Bylaw, the Provincial Offences Act, and the Reopening Ontario Act, 2020.

“High-risk nuisance violations can, and do continue to happen across the City,” said Paige Agnew, commissioner of community services for the City. “The best way to keep Kingston safe is to establish clear rules and ensure consistent communication with all residents. It’s a community effort.”

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