Crackdown On Coronavirus 'Spreader' Events In Suffolk: Bellone

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — A wedding in Suffolk County left a third of the 90 guests infected with the coronavirus, county officials said Tuesday — sparking a crackdown on "spreader" events, officials said.

County officials did not say where the wedding was held.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said the venue that hosted the wedding will be fined up to $15,000. Bellone said a Farmingville resident who recently hosted a house party with more than 200 people will also be fined up to $15,000.

The fine for the resident is in addition to field appearance tickets issued by police for charges including criminal nuisance and allowing consumption of alcohol to minors under 21, Bellone said.

Bellone said the Department of Health Services is monitoring a recent "spreader" event where more than 20 people tested positive for the virus after attending a birthday party in Bellport.

While that party did not violate social gathering guidelines, the event "showcases how quickly the virus can spread if proper social distancing and mask protocols are not followed," Bellone said.

There have been reports in recent weeks about gatherings lead to coronavirus outbreaks or enforcement action.

The North Fork Country Club in Cutchogue closed for 14 days after at least two people tested positive for the coronavirus following a wedding at the facility, according to Suffolk County officials.

"We reached out to Department of Health and we are working with them to provide all information needed," the business said in a statement. "In respect of our employees and in compliance with HIPPA we are not able to disclose the health status of our employees."

The individuals who tested positive are currently isolated at home, Bellone's media representative said.

Earlier this month, a Sweet 16 party at a Miller Place catering hall led to 37 coronavirus cases and 81 guests going under quarantine. The party also led to the closure of a local high school; that event is now considered Suffolk County's first superspreader event, Bellone said.

In September, Giorgio's Baiting Hollow, a popular Long Island wedding venue, had its liquor license suspended after 95 people — more than twice the legal limit — attended a reception, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

That news led to an outcry from lawmakers and business owners who said they believe livelihoods are on the line and catering facilities should be allowed to open at 50 percent capacity.

Bellone's office shared information about isolation and quarantine protocols, which can be found on the Suffolk County website.

Suffolk County health officials urged catering halls and persons wishing to hold an event to follow New York State guidance for food services during the pandemic, county officials said.

As residents prepare for Halloween weekend, officials will issue a warning to be smart and safe to prevent the spread of the virus.