Durham Regional Police have charged organizers of a large gathering at a playground in Whitby earlier this week in violation of provincial emergency health measures.
On April 27, 2021, at approximately 4 p.m., members of Central West Division, along with Town of Whitby by-law officers, attended a large gathering at Baycliffe Park (also known as Rocketship Park) in defiance of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) and Reopening Ontario Act (ROA).
The officers managed the situation in accordance with proper police protocols, taking into account all circumstances and professional considerations, including the safety of a large number of young children who were present at the time.
“The vast majority of our citizens are respecting current health restrictions intended to protect themselves and their neighbours. For those few who are not in compliance with the rules, our approach has been consistent — engage, educate and, if all else fails, enforce with charges under the current legislation,” says Interim Chief Todd Rollauer. “Since the pandemic began, our officers have engaged appropriately and effectively with literally thousands of Durham residents regarding various health measures designed to protect the community from COVID-19. In all but a few cases, residents have complied without enforcement. At the same time, more than 60 offence notices have been issued to those few who have continued to behave in a manner that threatens the health of others in the community. Our officers will continue to respond appropriately to each situation as it occurs.”
On April 29, 2021, DRPS laid charges against two individuals in relation to the April 27 gathering and others that occurred on March 20 and April 17.
As a result, a 48-year-old male from Oshawa and a 49-year-old male from Whitby have both been charged with: Host or Organize Public Event or Gathering and Number Exceeds Permitted Number x3 and Individual Fail to Comply with an Order Made During a Declared Emergency x2.
This investigation is ongoing and further charges are being considered.