This semester’s annual crime log shows an increase in the number of alcohol violations (AVs) given out to students at bus loadings before social events.
The number of AVs given out at bus loadings has almost doubled since last year, according to the log.
“TCU police are not being stricter, however officers are more vigilant in looking out for the health and safety of the students,” said TCU police officer Tom McLaughlin.
TCU police officers are present at every bus loading and unloading for all social events. Their primary role is to monitor each student to make sure they are in compliance with the TCU policies and state law regarding the usage and/or possession of alcohol.
“The increase in AVs are directly connected with the fact that some of the students, unintentional or intentional, have a disregard for the TCU student code of conduct and its contents as they relate to campus alcohol policies and student demeanor,” McLaughlin said.
TCU police monitor every student prior to bus loading to determine if they are intoxicated to the level of being a hazard to themselves or others.
Recently the police department has seen an increased number of students who are bringing alcohol to bus loadings, which could cause the student to get arrested.
“TCU students are being more blatant in their activities,” McLaughlin said.
“A student may be arrested based on several factors including the level of intoxication, combativeness and failure to comply with TCU policy regarding alcohol usage,” McLaughlin said.
Students who receive an AV at bus loading are prohibited from attending the event and depending on their intoxication level, students may be sent back to their residence hall.
“TCU police’s primary role is to monitor the safety and security of students,” McLaughlin said.
“Students can avoid receiving an AV by being in compliance with the rules, not arriving at bus loadings possessing alcohol and not being intoxicated,” McLaughlin said.
McLaughlin said students should have fun and be respectful of others.
“Don’t be a bystander,” McLaughlin said. “If you see others in need of help, be there for them.”
