Large parties, like these from 2019, are being frowned upon in Fredonia.

Fredonia police are issuing a warning to residents and college students: parties and large gatherings will be facing scrutiny in the coming weeks.

Philip Maslak, department police chief, noted in a news item to local media on Monday that state Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order regarding gatherings is still in effect. Parties and or gatherings outdoors are limited to 25 persons at this time, while maintaining social distancing guidelines.

Maslak’s message comes at a time when large groups of students have gathered for what is now termed “Not Fred Fest.” The event, last held in 2019 before the pandemic, led to 106 arrests with more than 200 offenses and no violent felonies. There were two felony-level cocaine possession arrests.

“The global impact of COVlD-19 continues to affect the daily lives of everyone,” Maslak said. “It is our objective, at the Fredonia Police Department, to stay on top of this pandemic and maintain the safest environment for our entire community. At this time we would like to remind everyone of the possible hazards of social gatherings and we are asking for compliance. As stated above, our governor and health officials have limited outside gatherings to 25 persons and indoor at 10 persons. It is imperative that landlords; parents and student tenants join our efforts by continuing to make smart choices during the on-going pandemic and state of emergency.”

A Twitter handle of Fredfest 2021 noted in one of its feed items, “We will be in Fredonia this weekend doing alumni things. And by we I mean like 8 of us. Bars aren’t ready.”

Maslak asked for the help of the public in reducing any type of large incident.

“We ask that if anyone knows of someone promoting such an event on social media or any other way to contact us immediately as measures will be taken to prevent the gathering,” he said. “Students are asked to refer to their Student Code of Conduct and/or the emergency directive titled, ‘Uniform Sanctioning in response to COVID-19 Student Violations.’ These documents provide guidance and provide sanctions should compliance not be observed. The Fredonia Police Department will continue to cooperate with Fredonia State University regarding any issues related to student conduct. We would like to encourage everyone to continue practicing social distancing. The Fredonia Police Department thanks you in advance for your cooperation in this matter.”