Alcohol citations spike over D-Days
According to the University Police Department, illegal activities during Dakota Days at the University of South Dakota remained comparable to last year’s D-Days, with a slight increase in non-student participation.
As of Oct. 9, UPD documented a total of 48 incidents in which either referrals or citations were issued. Out of the 48 incidents, there were 27 citations, 11 of which were students.
Compared to last year, documented reports indicate a rise of underage consumption with 19 more student referrals, which UPD Lt. Dallas Schnack said is because of staff communication in residence halls.
“Our increase in alcohol is due to 19 more referrals to Student Rights and Responsibilities this year, which can be attributed to working closely with hall staff,” Schnack said.
Over the homecoming weekend, UPD cited more non-students for illegal activity than USD students. Schnack noted that five students who received referrals in the residence halls were from other South Dakota colleges.
“The problem is non-students,” said Schnack.
He further said that UPD’s goal for the weekend was to deter students from partaking in illegal activity.
“Our philosophy is if we’re seen more, maybe we can get some reduced numbers,” Schnack said.
