Police crack down on rowdy sports fans
Police say they will be enforcing bylaws to curb rowdy behaviour at public sporting events in the West Island.
Montreal police from Station 1 in Kirkland are working with local sports associations to enforce statutes involving the consumption of alcohol in public spaces such as soccer fields, parks and hockey arenas.
The “Project ‘O’ Jeu” was recently launched by police, with the support of Lakeshore sports associations
“In collaboration with the sporting associations of the West Island, Station 01 of the Montreal Police Service would like to inform you that the municipal bylaws and statutes must be respected by those attending events in all public areas,” police said in a statement.
Police also noted that under bylaws that apply to all public places, spectators who “cause a nuisance … are liable to face fines over $100 or may even face criminal proceedings.”
Police said the bylaws apply to anyone who “disturbs the peace” by:
Swearing, causing uproar, or by being implicated in a verbal or physical altercation;
Possessing or consuming alcohol without authorization;
Being found in a state of intoxication by alcohol or drugs.
Station 1 police said they will make periodic visits to local sports venues to assure public order and enforce bylaws.
“Your local police fully appreciate that the majority of spectators and participants are law-abiding citizens. As such, we hope that good behaviour will prevail in order to allow our young athletes to safely enjoy themselves in an atmosphere of sportsmanship,” reads the statement.
Const. Alex Therrien said the program is meant as a reminder to parents and spectators to enjoy themselves and behave in a responsible manner at local sports events. “You are there to support your kid,” he said.
Kelly-Anne Soutter, an administrator with several local sports associations, also lent her support to the initiative on behalf of Lakeshore soccer, hockey and football.