Fine threat as police examine rave CCTV
POLICE have said they will examine CCTV of the rave at a student hall of residence in Coventry and issue fines of up to £10,000 if it is found it was pre-planned.
Disciplinary proceedings could also be brought against those taking part in the mass gathering involving around 200 people in the early hours of September 29.
The party at Arundel House took place in flagrant contravention of Covid-19 restrictions, which include a ban on more than six people meeting in indoor and outdoor locations.
The revellers are shown holding up mobile phones and forming a dancefloor, with several people jumping on tables as a drill song plays in the background.
A joint statement has been issued by Professor John Latham, the university’s Vice Chancellor, and Chief Superintendent Mike O’hara of West Midlands Police.
They said: “Both Coventry University and West Midlands
Police are appalled by the scenes caught on video at the student accommodation Arundel House, which is owned and operated by a private provider.
“We are working together - alongside the private accommodation provider - to investigate this incident.
“West Midlands Police will be examining CCTV and will take action if it comes to light that this was a planned party.
“Organisers of illegal gatherings of more than 30 people can be fined up to a maximum of £10,000.
“Anyone who attends a social gathering of more than six people can be fined £100, doubling up to a maximum of £3,200.”
The party ran into the early hours of Tuesday at the hall of residence in Whitefriars Lane, close to the university’s main campus.
Widespread condemnation has followed after a clip was posted on Twitter showing the boisterous gathering.
The statement read: “Coventry University will start disciplinary proceedings against any students identified by West Midlands Police or its own investigation.
“The university’s Covid-19 code of conduct was distributed to students last week and included warnings about the disciplinary sanctions open to the university, including suspension or withdrawal from the university.
“Any action will be appropriate to the findings of a thorough disciplinary process.
“The private accommodation provider has agreed to close some communal areas and to increase security.
“A Safer Students stall has been arranged between WMP and the private accommodation provider to reiterate
Covid-19 regulations to residents and the consequences should those regulations be flouted.
“The university has consistently and repeatedly conveyed clear messaging around what is expected of students both on and off campus and will be reinforcing that message in response to this incident.
“We understand and share the deep concern this has caused but it is our belief that the overwhelming majority of students are following the guidelines and doing everything they can to play their part in protecting our communities.
“There have been very few incidents of large scale Covid19 breaches in Coventry to date; people have generally recognised the importance of the restrictions and behaved responsibly.
“Officers from West Midlands Police will be out on the streets reminding everyone of their duty to help slow the spread of the virus and not to congregate in large numbers. If they have to, officers will move people on and fines will be issued where appropriate.”