A drunk passenger who refused to wear a mask in a taxi on New Year's Day has been arrested and slapped with a fine of $690.
Not only that, but instead of kicking the bloke out of the vehicle, the driver drove him straight to the police station after a night out.
The driver, who was based in Victoria, Vancouver, called 911 to report a man was refusing to wear a mask in his cab.
Advert
The passenger was also touching the driver's face and 'belligerently' refusing to adhere to guidelines under the Covid-19 Related Measures Act.
When the taxi arrived at Victoria Police Department's headquarters, the cab was met by officers, however, the man refused to get out. He was eventually removed and was taken into custody.
He was fined $230 on each count of failing to wear a facial covering, being abusive or belligerent, and for failing to comply with the direction of an officer.
Reddit users were quick to condemn the maskless man, with one user commenting: "Imagine if he was positive and got the cab driver sick.."
Advert
Another added: "Unfortunately there's no mention of him being made to pay the taxi fare, which would have been the icing on the cake."
The incident was just one of 102 calls for service received by the police from the area over the New Year's period.
They included reports of gatherings, including house parties and parties in hotel rooms, and an alleged assault.
Meanwhile in Australia, NSW Premier Gladys Berijiklian last week announced that Sydney, including Wollongong, the Central Coast and Blue Mountains, would be required to wear a face masks in public.
Advert
People will have to don a face covering at shopping centres, on public transport, in cinemas and theatres, places of worship, and in hair and beauty premises as of January 4.
They will also be mandatory for all staff in hospitality venues and casinos and for patrons using gaming services.
Those found not wearing a mask in these venues will face a $200 on-the-spot fine, while children under 12 are exempt but are encouraged to wear masks where practicable.
Featured Image Credit: PixabayTopics: News