Underage drinking at N.C. State increased dramatically this year, Captain Jon Barnwell of Campus Police said. He said Campus Police is working around-the clock to keep this problem under control.
“The increase in alcohol-related infractions is startling compared to the previous four years,” Barnwell said.
He said the increase in alcohol related arrests is not due to a change in campus alcohol policy.
According to Barnwell, a student’s first alcohol offense results in a referral to campus judicial hearings.After a second offense, the student is issued a criminal citation along with a referral to student conduct.
In order to handle the large number of underage drinkers, Campus Police is teaming up with Alcohol Law Enforcement, Barnwell said. ALE officers usually wear street clothes and can be found at football games, grocery stores, concerts and especially bars.
Some students, like Drew Newson, a lifelong education student, feel ALE officers violate their privacy by concealing their identities.
“I appreciate what they stand for — but I don’t think it’s fair that they don’t wear uniforms,” Newson said.
Campus police’s biggest concern are DWI incidents, which warrants an automatic one-semester suspension if caught on or off campus, Barnwell said.
“We have already made six DUI arrests on campus this year. It’s just a shame that people are choosing to drink and drive,” he said.
Barnwell said one of the measures of prevention utilized by the campus police is the Responsible Behavior Initiative, which emphasizes responsibility and positive behavior. Incentives are given to students who reflect positive behavior by being designated drivers or convincing drunk friends not to drive.
The RBI plan shows officials are ardently working together with college leaders and students to educate and protect the public, Barnwell said.
The University added new campus alcohol policies on Dec. 1, 2006.
One new policy states police have the power to issue an underage-possession ticket for consumption of alcohol — even if the underage student isn’t in possession of alcohol. Previously, it was only against the law to possess or purchase alcohol underage, Barnwell said.
“If you have the odor of alcohol on your breath, and an officer happens to detect it, then you are required to take a Breathalyzer test,” Barnwell said.
According to Barnwell, students do not have the right to refuse the Breathalyzer.
“Ignorance of the law is no excuse or defense if you are cited,” Barnwell said. “The new laws are strict, so the only way to circumvent their punishments is to be smart and responsible. Know the rules and be mindful of the consequences for those who violate them.”
News Correspondent Ben Duvall also contributed to this story.
