ALBANY, NY (AP) – The New York governor says he is “appalled” at the videos showing crowds standing together at a Hamptons concert with electronic music duo The Chainsmokers over the weekend.
Governor Andrew Cuomo said the state Health Department will carry out an investigation into “egregious violations of social distancing.” Cuomo warned reporters in a call Tuesday that violations of public health law can result in civil fines and potential criminal liability.
“We do not tolerate the illegal reckless danger of public health,” the tweet read Monday night.
The Saturday night concert, called “Safe & Sound,” was presented as a charity show in Southampton, where Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon and the City of Southampton supervisor Jay Jayne’s band they also acted.
Cuomo questioned why the local police did not separate because it was “out of control and all the rules were being violated.” He said the state investigation will analyze the role of local leaders and reports of “ongoing” violations in the village of Southampton.
Cuomo shared a social media video, which has more than 6 million views, showing crowds of people standing and swaying near the stage. The video shows attendees who appeared to be wearing masks, but many people were standing within 6 feet (2 meters).
The governor’s criticism comes when he argues that local governments in much of New York state have failed to impose social distancing and mask the rules. State Health Commissioner Howard Zucker rebuked Schneiderman in a letter Monday and questioned how Southampton could have issued a permit for an event that posed a threat to public health.
Concert organizers In the Know Experiences did not immediately respond to requests for comment by email and phone on Tuesday. Schneiderman’s office did not immediately make him available for the interview.
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