Since the beginning of the pandemic, a total of 729 people have been fined between £200 to £1,000 for having house parties, making unnecessary journeys, breaching travel regulations or going to public places whilst infected with Coronavirus.
Kent Police say despite targeted Government campaigns urging people to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives, people are still making unnecessary journeys and gathering in groups, potentially spreading the virus and putting vulnerable people at risk.
Some of the most recent fines issued by the force include three men and three women who were having a house party at an address in Dartford on Saturday, January 16. Shortly after dispersing the group the officers were called back to the address where they found three women attempting to conceal their presence by hiding in cupboards. They were all fined.
On the same day, a woman was stopped by a patrol in Folkestone and fined after admitting she had tested positive for Covid-19 three days previously and should have been self-isolating.
Two men and a woman were fined after officers broke up a party at a property in St Martin’s Road, Canterbury on Friday, January 15, involving around 20 people.
And a man was fined for visiting a brothel in Minster, Isle of Sheppey at around 6pm also on Friday, January 15. It is not known if he was caught when arriving or leaving the establishment.
Assistant Chief Constable Claire Nix said: “We remain in critical times and whilst the NHS have been remarkable in what they have achieved, they are still dealing with an overwhelming number of seriously ill patients.
“The limitations posed by lockdown are difficult for everyone and it is testament to the people of Kent that the vast majority of residents have changed their way of life to help stop the spread of this virus and protect the most vulnerable within the community. I would like to thank these people for making such sacrifices, which will not only take the strain off the NHS, but ultimately save lives.
“Whilst it is encouraging to see that many are being vaccinated against Covid-19 and the infection rate is slowing, we must not be complacent and use that as an excuse to breach the regulations. The virus remains deadly to many and it is crucial that we all do what we can to protect others and prevent overwhelming our hospitals.
“Officers will continue to patrol the county, explaining, engaging and encouraging people to adhere to the regulations. They will take action against those who show a blatant disregard for others by holding parties or going out when they have a positive Coronavirus test.”
