A push to require house-party planners to notify the police in advance of ragers has ruffled the feathers of Brooklynites who say they will fight for their right to party.
Councilman Jumaane Williams (D–Flatbush) said he will introduce a bill that would make it mandatory for people planning parties of more than 40 people to alert the police ahead of the event.
But pro-party people say such a law would clamp down on their right to get down.
“That’s hideous,” said Larisa Fuchs of event promotion company Gemini & Scorpio. “The idea that you would have to check in with mom and dad at the NYPD is ridiculous.”
Fuchs, whose company throws parties in a variety of sizes, from large bashes in warehouses to small events in residential lofts, added that such alaw would give the police department the right to overstep its bounds.
“It creates another excuse for the NYPD to shut down parties that they feel like shutting down,” said Fuchs.
Williams came up with the idea after a gunman who was angry that he had been denied entry to a house party in East Flatbush shot eight people last week.
That party was one of several organized by a promoter who advertised the party with street fliers and social media, charged a cover, and sold liquor, something Williams said was illegal to begin with.
“They are already violating cabaret and liquor laws,” said Williams. “You have to make sure these promoters aren’t putting people in danger.”
Williams said he is aware that the legislation will have to be carefully worded to avoid making it too difficult to throw house parties. He said he is willing to entertain suggestions.
“I want to make sure we separate out the house clubs from the normal house party where people come to socialize and drink and enjoy music,” said Williams.
But, in Brooklyn, it’s a thin line between a house party and themed parties where guests pay a donation to enter.
“This makes it difficult for everybody and will not solve the actual issue at hand,” said Fuchs.
Reach reporter Danielle Furfaro at dfurfaro@cnglocal.com or by calling (718) 260-2511. Follow her at twitter.com/DanielleFurfaro.
