NEW YORK - A “sweet 16” birthday event held at a Long Island Venue left 37 people infected with COVID-19 while forcing hundreds to quarantine, according to state health officials.
Health officials said in a news release that the Miller Place Inn was fined $12,000 for exceeding the state’s 50 person limit enforced in New York State to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.“This was an egregious violation and should serve as a stark reminder of the consequences that exist for flouting COVID-19 protocols,” said Suffolk Country Executive Steve Bellone. “These rules and regulations exist for a reason - to keep New Yorkers safe - and we all have an obligation to act responsibly.”Officials said the venue did not enforce state health restrictions.