Hamilton police make 5 arrests following unsanctioned street party

Hamilton police arrested five people following a series of unsanctioned street parties that drew thousands of people on Saturday.

Police say they received 49 calls about the parties near the McMaster campus, which they say drew around 8,000-9,000 people.

Police say paramedics received 10 calls over the course of the gatherings and two people were taken to hospital for public intoxication.

READ MORE: McMaster students flood Dalewood area for unsanctioned homecoming events

Five people were charged under the nuisance party bylaw, which city council enacted last month and requires attendees to leave an area once their gathering has been deemed a nuisance.

Additionally, officers say they issued 10 provincial offence notices.

“Joining forces with the City, McMaster University, and our first responder partners allowed us to mitigate the adverse effects of unauthorized street gatherings. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the community is a collective responsibility,” Hamilton Police Superintendent Dave Hennick said.