Charges laid after Toronto police bust party at King Street restaurant

Despite repeated calls for people to not gather during the emergency stay-at-home order, Toronto police busted another party this weekend.

Officers responded to Baro restaurant at 485 King Street West around 5:45 Sunday afternoon.

“It was one of our dedicated enforcement teams that attended,” Constable David Hopkinson said.

“When officers got on scene, there were 20 to 25 people in the restaurant. We laid approximately 9 charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.”

RELATED:

• ‘Please don’t gather’, Toronto police issue more than 400 additional fines ahead of weekend

• 2 dozen charged, $13K in booze seized after Toronto police break up maskless party

Constable Hopkinson could not comment on whether or not those in attendance were wearing masks.

“With the lockdown slated to conclude in mere weeks, the internal team at Baro was preparing for its reopening by testing new menu options, discussing new restaurant layouts, and reviewing updated operation plans,” said a spokesperson for the restaurant.

“The entire team was located outdoors on the patio and there was no alcohol being served. Baro has consistently followed all rules pertaining to the lockdown and there was certainly no intention to be non-compliant. We look forward to opening our doors when it is safe to do so.”

Last week, police announced they laid over 400 charges against people attending gatherings from May 7 to 13 alone, bringing the total number of charges to more than 1,000 since the dedicated enforcement teams were formed April 22.

Officers from all divisions are continuing to investigate a variety of parties and social gatherings at condos, short-term rentals, as well as closed bars and restaurants.