Police Break Up 400-Person Suffolk Party As Coronavirus Spikes

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — As Suffolk County's coronavirus infection rate spiked to 5.2 percent, some people continue to flout social distancing and gathering protocols, evidenced by a 400-person party that was broken up in Brookhaven, according to county Executive Steve Bellone.

County health officials on Tuesday announced 609 new coronavirus cases, three deaths and 31 more people hospitalized.

"These numbers are alarming, to say the least," Bellone said, adding the infection rate is the highest since May 17.

A total of 266 people in the county are currently are hospitalized with the virus and 46 are in intensive care. Sixteen people were discharged. Hospital bed capacity stands at 28 percent and intensive care capacity is at 32 percent.

On Nov. 1, the infection rate was 1.2 percent and 42 patients were hospitalized.

"The numbers are surging in Suffolk County, just before the start of the season," Bellone said. "The toughest months are ahead of us."

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who recently limited gatherings at private residences to 10 people, on Monday said 65 percent of the spread of the virus is now attributed to small gatherings. Bellone said there continues to be egregious violations, including the Brookhaven party.

Bellone said the host of the party was someone who rented a Hawkins Lane home on Airbnb. He said the homeowner reported it to police after finding out about it.

According to a Newsday post, the home is located on a dead-end street and is owned by a New Jersey resident.

"It's very important that people understand that the message is clear: We are not going to allow people to skirt COVID-19 protocols and rules by renting a home and thinking they are going to get away with it," Bellone said. "We have worked too hard, overcome too much, to allow selfish and reckless individuals to set back our efforts to protect people's health and economic recovery."

Bellone also discussed Cuomo's new coronavirus strategy in regard to hospital capacity and testing and said schools continue to be safe places for students and should remain open.