An inquiry by New York State’s health commissioner into a Hamptons, NY charity party that violated social distancing rules has resulted in a $20,000 fine levied against the event’s promoters.
Video of Safe & Sound, a “drive-in music experience in the famous summer hot spot, the Hamptons” featuring the Chainsmokers, Goldman Sachs boss David “DJ-Sol” Solomon and Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman’s band held July 25, went viral and set off public outrage in New York, an area hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tickets for the pricey event ran between $1,250 and $25,000, with proceeds going to local charities No Kid Hungry, Children’s Medical Fund of N.Y. and Southampton Fresh Air Home.
The state investigation revealed that 2,150 people attended the event and far exceeded the number allowed on the permit. The limit was 50 for nonessential gatherings under Phase 4 of the state’s reopening, which Long Island entered on July 8.
Taking to Twitter, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the fine, adding the local municipality will not be able to approve permits for local public group gatherings without permission from the State.
NEW: Following an investigation into the Chainsmokers concert in the Hamptons this summer, the promoters will be fined $20,000 for violating public health law.
Further, the Town of Southampton cannot approve permits for group gatherings without State approval.
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) October 14, 2020
In July, event promoters In the Know Experiences and Invisible Noise defended their actions, stating CDC guidelines were followed. They have yet to comment about the fine announced yesterday.