GMP issued more than 80 fines to Covid-19 rule breakers this weekend

A large gathering with over 100 people in attendance was reported to Greater Manchester Police just before 10pm last night (21 November 2020).

Officers received a report of 10 people in the yard of an industrial unit before arriving at the scene and hearing a large number of people inside a unit on Mary Street in Manchester.

When entry was gained, a large number of people were found inside after officers opened numerous locked doors.

A total of 17 people were all handed Fixed Penalty Notices at the gathering and officers are working alongside partners in licensing to close the premises.

Hours later, just after 1am today (22 November 2020), officers were called to a report of a party on Butterton Drive in Manchester. A number of people had sprawled out onto the street on police arrival.

Further patrols attended and an officer was allegedly bitten on the arm whilst trying to break up the party.

Shirena Depasois (10/02/1972), of Reilly Street, Manchester, has been charged with assaulting an emergency worker.

Officers also attended other gatherings across Greater Manchester over the weekend resulting in a number of fines with breaches reported in Manchester City Centre and Stockport.

Since November 2, around 600 fines have been given out with a large number issued following reported gatherings.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "These parties are a blatant disregard of the rules and pose a significant health risk to all those involved and the rest of the communities in Greater Manchester.

"The world is currently facing a public health crisis and breaking such regulations is simply against the law and selfish.

"Though the lockdown has a huge effect on the people of Greater Manchester's lives - the restrictions are there to save lives.

"We have no alternative but to issue fines for blatant disregard of the rules. Large gatherings pose a monumental risk to people's lives and I hope this serves as a reminder to those considering to flout the rules. We will take action.

"But I would also remind the public who choose to so obviously breach these rules, this is adding to the pressure on policing when we would much rather be responding to other calls from the public.

"This is a challenging time for everyone but we all need to make sure we work together to reduce the risk posed by the spread of Covid-19."

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