It was an expensive party.
A report approved by the London Police Services Board on Thursday shows that the cost of public information and policing around Western University’s homecoming in 2022 was $265,155 – significantly higher than previous homecoming street parties.
Police did an information outreach with people who live in the heavy party areas around Western like Broughdale Avenue – and closed several streets last September while the party occurred.
In preparation of the anticipated crowds, London police added additional officers to the area and brought in reinforcements from York Region and Hamilton.
Police estimated that more than 7,000 people were on London streets during the final weekend of September.
“This included reckless acts such as throwing beer cans at others – including our officers – damaging property, and jumping from rooftops and hydro polls, which had the potential to cause life-altering consequences. It is very fortunate that we did not see a more serious outcome to this event,” now-retired London Police Chief Steve Williams said at the time.
They also issued several infraction notices.
• 22 Liquor Licence Control Act charges.
• 34 Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs).
• 162 Provincial warnings.
• 16 By-law warnings.
• Three Criminal Code charges (two outstanding warrants, one assault police).
“This is an enormous undertaking each year, and I am extremely proud of the work our officers, along with our partner agencies, did this weekend to ensure that the safety of those in attendance and of our entire community was maintained,” Williams said in September.
