Panda Game 2023: Zero tolerance for public disorder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, September 26, 2023  2:10 pm 

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is working with Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) and will have a significant and sustained presence in the ByWard Market, Sandy Hill and Old Ottawa South areas for Panda Game festivities. The OPS is also working with its policing partners including the OPP and university partners from both Carleton University and the University of Ottawa to ensure lawful festivities.

Officers will focus on Criminal Code, Liquor Licence and Control Act offences, and other general conduct issues. Public safety will be the number one priority.

Police and By-law officers will go door-to-door in the Sandy Hill/ByWard Market area once again to speak directly to residents and businesses. We want to assure residents that we hear your concerns based on post-Panda Game activities last year.

These events had a negative impact on local residents and neighbourhoods. Last year, disruptive parties after last year’s Panda Game resulted in multiple incidents of criminal activity, including the destruction of property and assault. Multiple criminal charges were laid as a result.

Police and By-law are aware of several addresses that have previously raised concerns and will monitor them.

People in the areas with the potential for the most impact will see increased and strict enforcement with limited discretion and no tolerance for law-breaking, including by-laws, provincial laws, and the Criminal Code of Canada. Failure to adhere to municipal regulations, including the Noise By-law.

If property owners wish, they can grant police Agent Status in advance to enable officers to enforce the Trespass to Property Act if partygoers spill onto their private property. Visit ottawapolice.ca/AgentStatus.

We remind partygoers that Police and By-law Officers will be enforcing the law, so we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly. We will not tolerate the types of activities that followed last year’s Panda Game. 

Here are some tips:

1. Plan your ride. Drive sober. No alcohol. No drugs. Order a rideshare, take public transit or stay overnight.
2. Be a good neighbour. Loud and rowdy parties do not make good neighbour relations. Keep the noise/music to a dull roar and respect property in your neighbourhood.
3. Keep alcohol where it belongs. Police will enforce the Liquor Licence and Control Act. Leave the booze at home or drink it at an authorized establishment. 
4. Don’t invite us to the party. Keep gatherings under control with visitors you know.
5. Be a good friend. Watch out for the safety and well-being of one another. Call 911 in an emergency.

As always, if you spot an impaired driver or for emergencies, please call 9-1-1.

- 30 -

CONTACT:

Media Relations Section         

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366