Massachusetts party filled with underage youths leads to citation due to COVID-19 protocols

COHASSET — Chief William Quigley reports that the Cohasset Police Department responded to a large gathering at a private residence last night, at which a number of minors were found to be in violation of state gathering restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday, Nov. 13 at approximately 11 p.m., Cohasset Police responded to a home on Jerusalem Road for numerous reports of a large gathering.

Upon arrival, officers observed a gathering of approximately 20 underage youths who were allegedly disregarding state-mandated social distancing and face covering protocols inside an enclosed small structure on the property. Open containers were found throughout the structure as well.

While officers were at the scene, several of the occupants began to flee into a nearby wooded area. Police attempted to identify those who remained present and contacted each of the juvenile’s parents to make arrangements to pick up their children.

Police also located two adults inside the main home and identified them as the homeowners.

Cohasset Police, in conjunction with the Cohasset Board of Health, issued the homeowners a $500 citation for violation of Gov. Charlie Baker’s COVID-19 Order #54, exceeding the 10-person limit regarding indoor gatherings.

The Cohasset School District has also been notified and is taking immediate steps to protect students and staff from possible exposure to COVID-19.

“Our department’s top priority is to keep our residents safe,” Chief Quigly said. “We can not stress enough the importance of residents, especially our youths, adhering to public health guidance. All youths should be practicing social distancing and not attending any large gatherings.”