Essex Police Crackdown at University of Essex Over Rule-Breaking Students
Essex Police have teamed up with University of Essex staff at the Colchester campus to enforce COVID-19 restrictions. The goal? To get students on board and stop the virus from spreading.
Most Students Comply, But Some Flout Rules
The university has rolled out strict measures to ensure students stick to guidelines. While most have played ball, a small group decided to ignore the rules. In response, police ramped up patrols around campus and nearby areas last weekend.
Officers caught a group of seven in a university car park on Friday night, all slapped with £200 fines. The following evening, police broke up two house parties on Albany Road, each with eight attendees – everyone there was fined. Later that night, nine students from different residences were spotted gathering in a courtyard and were also handed penalties.
Police and Uni Call Out Rule Breakers
“We always try to explain and engage first,” said Chief Inspector Rob Huddleston, Colchester District Commander. “But for those who repeatedly break the rules, enforcement is the only option.”
“We don’t want to ruin anyone’s fun, but the responsibility to protect the NHS and community comes first.”
Huddleston urged students to follow the rules so police can focus on protecting vulnerable people and catching criminals, not policing parties.
University Stands Firm on Safety
Vanessa Potter, Director of External Relations at the university, said: “We’re proud most students are doing the right thing. Where they’re not, we’ve asked police to step in.”
“This isn’t about stopping fun – it’s about keeping everyone safe.”
Fines and Penalties for Rule Breakers
- £200 fixed penalty notice for gatherings over six people
- Fine halves to £100 if paid within 28 days
- Fines double for repeat offenders
- Organisers of illegal gatherings face up to £10,000 fines
Essex Police and University of Essex warn: Play by the rules, or you’ll pay the price.
