Peel police break up 60-person party at Mississauga Airbnb, issuing more than $45,000 in fines
Peel Police and bylaw officers broke up a gathering of about 60 people inside a Mississauga Airbnb early Sunday morning, issuing $45,000 in fines to the hosts and party-goers.
“The incident took place in the city’s area,” Peel Police Media Officer Kyle Villers told the Star.
“Bylaw officers reached the Airbnb unit first and individuals were subsequently found fleeing when police arrived at the scene,” he added.
Deputy Peel Police Chief Marc Andrews tweeted that two “part-3” summons were handed out to the hosts, each entailing a minimum fine of $10,000. Additionally, 27 individuals were fined $880 each for violating continued regulations under the .
Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie said she was “very disappointed” to hear about the large house party and that she’s been telling people for weeks to stay home and only leave their residence for essential trips.
“Everyone has to play their part to get this virus under control. With numbers as high as they are, people must remain vigilant,” Crombie said in a written statement. “The virus right now is controlling us, we’re not controlling the virus. These charges and tickets send a strong signal to the community that we are taking the situation extremely seriously and will not hesitate to enforce the rules.”
Airbnb told the Star that the party was unauthorized at the short-term rental, and that the owner was unaware of the large gathering.
“Airbnb bans parties, and the reported behaviour is outrageous,” the company wrote in an email. “We are in touch with Mississauga officials to offer our support and have deactivated the listing as we investigate further.”
Via Twitter, Andrews said that “it’s a tough time for everyone, these antics help no one.”
Akrit Michael is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star’s radio room in Toronto. Reach him via email:
Libaan Osman is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star’s radio room in Toronto. Reach him via email: