Police break up huge student party in Sheffield handing out £34k in fines
More than 150 people were there
Last updated 5th Feb 2021
Police have broken up a party of more than 150 people at student halls in Sheffield, handing out over £34,000 in Covid fines.
Officers were called to the Ranmoor Student Village in the early hours of Thursday morning and many students ran from them and security when they turned up.
One police officer was injured as people broke out of fire exits and set off fire alarms to get away.
The organiser of the party's been handed a £10,000 fine and more than 30 others were given £800 fines for attending.
Sheffield City Centre Inspector, Ali Bywater said:
“At a time when the vast majority are working so hard and making huge sacrifices to adhere to the rules, it is absolutely appalling to see people show such blatant disregard for not just their own safety, but the safety of others.
“The actions of all those present were incredibly selfish and the fact that so many went to great lengths to flee from officers is evidence that they knew what they were doing was wrong.
“At one point, there were 14 police officers on scene; that’s 14 officers who could have been dealing with other important matters across the county.”
Police say they'll be working with the University of Sheffield to identify other people who were at the party from body worn camera footage.
A spokesperson for the University said:
“It is imperative that students respect social distancing rules and all other restrictions to keep themselves and others safe and we strongly condemn any breaches of government regulations.
“Our University Security Services and South Yorkshire Police have been working very closely and we have been clear and consistent with our messaging around student conduct and behaviour, regularly stressing to students that it is their social responsibility to adhere to government guidance. We thank the vast majority of our students for their ongoing efforts to do so and help stop the spread of Covid-19.
“We will continue to take action if we receive specific reports of anti-social behaviour, including reports of social distancing not being adhered to, as well as provide practical and emotional support to students who may be struggling at this time.”