Kelowna

Youths as young as 14 were found at two large grad bush parties this week, much to the concern of local emergency officials.

One of the parties occurred about five kilometres up the Myra Canyon Forest Service Road around 10 p.m. Tuesday.

Constable Steve Holmes says police encountered 150 - 200 youth, complete with alcohol and a large bonfire.

“The partiers poured out their alcohol, under direction of police and were cooperative in leaving the area, with the aid of sober drivers. The fire department attended to douse the bonfire,” says Holmes.

He says earlier in the evening, police dealt with a different bush party, attended by 70-80 youth, at the Canyon Falls area.

“This party was just getting underway but was quickly disbanded upon police arrival. Again, the fire department was required to put the bonfire out. What was most disconcerting to area residents was seeing several vehicles, apparently piloted by adults, dropping off youth, some who appeared to be as young as 14, to the bush party.”

Holmes says the mix of youths, alcohol, drugs and fires can have horrible results.

“Many times the consequences have been disastrous, with violence, assaults, property damage, sexual assaults and drug overdoses being reported as a result. If adults are willfully bringing youth to these kinds of venues, there is added cause for concern.”