Long weekends have been time periods of heightened concern throughout the pandemic, due to gatherings that lead to increased COVID-19 transmission.

This past Victoria Day long weekend was no exception and one such social event in Downtown Vancouver resulted in party people paying a high price.

The Vancouver Police Department announced today (May 25) that police issued more than $11,000 in total fines at a party that violated public health orders.

Police received several calls around 1 a.m. on May 23 about a loud party at a suite at 1200 West Georgia Street.

When officers arrived at the location, they knocked on the door several times and spoke with a resident on the phone, but those inside the suite refused to open the door.

After police obtained a search warrant, they entered the suite.

Officers issued a $2,300 violation ticket to the host for holding a non-compliant event, and the 16 attendees received fines of $575 each.

In addition, police seized a turntable, four speakers, and several cables as evidence.

B.C provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix are expected to announce details about the province's reopening plans later today.