Influencer Nadia Bartel Issues Apology After Being Filmed Snorting White Powder
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Aussie model and influencer Nadia Bartel has issued an apology after footage of her breaking lockdown and snorting white powder was shared online.
Bartel said she is 'embarrassed and remorseful' after the video was circulated on social media.
The 36-year-old mum-of-two breached strict lockdown rules in Melbourne to attend a party where she was filmed snorting a white powder off a plate.
The clip is believed to have been shared in error by Bartel's friend and business partner Ellie Pearson, who quickly removed the video, but not before it was recorded by fellow Instagram users and shared online.
In a post on Instagram Bartel wrote: Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions.
"I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future.
"To my family and friends, my business partners and the public health workers trying to keep us all safe, I am embarrassed and remorseful.
"I am truly and deeply sorry. I hope I can earn your forgiveness and, in time, your trust."
Police in Victoria have since said they are investigating the incident.
A spokesperson told 9News they were investigating 'a video currently on social media depicting a gathering of people and alleged illicit drug use'.
They added: "Victoria Police is making enquiries into the video."
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) told the news outlet it is 'liaising with Victoria Police in relation to the alleged incident'.
Gatherings are not currently permitted in Melbourne.
Premier Daniel Andrews was asked if he'd seen the clip during a coronavirus press conference. He told reporters he hadn't seen the video but used the question as an opportunity to remind residents to stick to the rules.
He said: "I would urge everybody to do their very best to follow the rules, all of the time. I know it's tough, I know it's difficult.
"Beyond that, I don't tend to comment on footage that I haven't seen."
Bartel, who runs a clothing company called Henne and a fake tan business called Spray Aus, has since turned commenting off on her Instagram account.
