Party Vibe

from TVP press office..

Monday 09 March 2009, 9:10am

Police are sending a warning to any party organisers who book a venue in Milton Keynes for a private function and then use the venue for a flash mob or rave.

On Saturday 28 February, what was believed to be a family birthday party was booked at the Servant King Church, on Dulverton Frive in Furzton. At 8pm, police and a fire safety officer were called to the event. Upon arrival, it was apparent there were more than 100 young people outside the community hall and approximately 300 inside, most of them intoxicated.

The licence for the hall states it is not permitted to hold more than 200 people, so there was clearly a health and safety issue.

It became clear that the organiser had not booked the venue for a family birthday; they had in fact booked the venue for a rave for 16 to 18 year olds. This event was advertised on Facebook and tickets were sold for £10 each.

Due to the safety considerations, the decision was made to stop the rave and close the hall. It was also noted there had been damage to the outside fence, and both the male and female toilets. A considerable number of cans and bottles littered the area. A large amount of alcohol was confiscated from underage drinkers by the police.

The organiser of the event, an 18-year-man, was subsequently arrested on suspicion of fraud (obtaining a service by deception). He was later released with a caution and given advice by the police on how to organise parties safely and legally in the future. The offender also agreed to contact the community centre and offer to pay for the damage caused during the evening.

Neighbourhood officer, PC Steven O’Neill, said: “The police intend to deal robustly with such gatherings. This should be a warning to anyone who considers organising an event of this nature by booking a venue under false pretences that they will be arrested and could face a criminal record and conviction.

“Events such as this which are not organised legally and safely can cause anti-social behaviour and can put people’s lives at risk. This will not be tolerated.

“The police are working with community centres and other venues to give them guidance and advice to ensure they do not become a victim or this type of incident in the future.”

ENDS