Keep this school year fun and fine-free

Maybe it's your first time leaving home and coming to college. I'm sure Mom and Dad told you they love you and will miss you dearly, but they may have also left with you some cutthroat advice: “Don't do anything stupid,” or “Please don't call me from jail.” A trip to the “drunk tank” may seem funny or more appealing when you're 15 deep, but nothing is more sobering than a $125 ticket for drinking in public, a $250 ticket for urinating in a public place... or worse.

In 2008, the London Police introduced Project L.E.A.R.N., a five-week program designed to teach students how to be respectful in their new neighbourhoods. According to London Police Const. Dennis Rivest, they provide a constant presence on campus and in student-heavy areas, and it's not uncommon for police to use social media to track down large parties. They deliver strict enforcement of by-laws related to parties, parking, open fires, noise, litter and public urination. In September 2011, 62 Criminal Charges and 1,343 Provincial Offence Notices were given out.

Campus Security Services Special Const. Brent Arsenault said the nature of the new experience can cause more criminal behaviour. “There's stressors of coming to college for the first time, being away from Mom and Dad, living in a house with five other people that you may or may not get along with. They're going to do things for the first time that they haven't traditionally done because it's a new environment.”

Arsenault is a Fanshawe grad himself, and he knows what the experience is like. “I'm a firm believer that people should have fun. This is college, it's about the best experiences in your life; however, you're here to get an education and you're here to be successful.”

Watching how much alcohol you consume can make a big difference in your actions. Ever heard of liquid courage? Often while intoxicated you are less likely to realize the consequences of your choices. Arsenault said many students “act tough around him, making the mistake of thinking he does not have the ability to charge or arrest them.” Students may not know “there's a big difference between security guards and special sonstables.” Special constables on campus wear distinctive black and red uniforms, they are sworn peace officers under the Ontario Police Services Act and do have the authority to hand out tickets and/or arrest you.

So the next time you think of mocking or ignoring one of Fanshawe's special constables, be aware of who it is you're dealing with. Understand the consequences of your actions, and even though you are no longer under your parents' roof, you'll most likely need their help when it comes to paying off a large fine or getting bailed out of jail.

MOST COMMON CHARGES
- Noise: Approx. $235/roommate
- Public Nuisance Bylaw: Min. $500
- Urinating in public: Approx. $250
- Drinking in public: Approx. $125
- Underage drinking: Approx. $125
- Failure to properly monitor the activities of a visitor whom the student invited to a College facility (charge varies)
- Possession of open containers of alcohol on campus: Approx. $125