Los Angeles to shut off water and power to houses hosting parties in violation of virus rules

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti  says he will authorize city utility services to cut power and water to properties where large parties and gatherings are taking place. The rule will go into effect on Friday.

Garcetti made the announcement Wednesday, hours after a city councilman proposed a similar measures be taken against property owners found to be acting in violation of Los Angele's public health orders and party house ordinance, which went into effect in 2018.

The city's party house ordinance, prevents any large or unruly gathering that threatens the public safety and welfare of the community from taking place.

"Despite a pandemic that has killed thousands in Los Angeles, some homeowners are choosing to put everyone at risk by renting out their homes to massive house parties. This is irresponsible bordering on deadly, and it must be stopped," Councilman David Ryu said.

Several days ago, a large house party in Los Angele's Beverly Crest neighborhood ended with a shooting, in which a woman was killed and two others were hospitalized.

Police found about 200 people at the mansion party when they arrived.