Indiana excise police report more tickets, higher BAC levels during Welcome Week

Indiana State Excise Police reported Monday that they issued a total of 84 citations from Aug. 26 to 29 and confiscated 20 false IDs.

Most of the summonses were alcohol-related, including illegal possession of alcoholic beverages, illegal consumption of alcoholic beverages and furnishing alcohol to a minor, according to an Indiana State Excise Police press release.

During Welcome Week excise issued 63 citations in 2008 and 181 in 2007, according to the press release.

IU Police Department made 45 arrests this year. Most arrests and citations made were alcohol-related incidents.

“I’m surprised we haven’t had any dumpster fires,” said Tyler Andis, a Varsity Villas security officer on duty Saturday night.

Andis patrolled the Varsity Villas complex Saturday with two other officers, including Donald Webster, who said they were a lot busier this year.

The blood alcohol contents of those arrested were also higher than in previous years, IUPD Sgt. Rebecca Schmuhl said.

IUPD officers came across several people unresponsive upon officers’ arrival, Schmuhl said, including a person who was taken to the hospital with a BAC of .39.

Along with a stronger excise presence and patrols by IUPD during Welcome Week, the Bloomington Police Department also took action.

“We see a large increase in underage drinking, OWIs and fight calls from bars,” Lt. David Drake said.

Due to the arrival of students for IU’s fall semester, the BPD put more units on the street to deal with the increase in underage drinking and noise violations, according to a news release.

“The first couple of weeks away from home are an opportunity for some to test the limits of their newfound freedom, and we want to make sure things do not get out of hand for their safety and for the general well-being of the community,” Chief Michael Diekhoff said.

“It sets the tone early for how we will enforce various laws and ordinances throughout the academic term.”