Local police urge students to stay safe during Welcome Weekend
Ahead of Welcome Weekend, the Mount Pleasant Police Department is reminding students that their safety is a top concern.
“Welcome Weekend is a time of celebration,” said Jeff Browne, Mount Pleasant’s public information officer, in an Aug. 18 press release. “It also brings an influx of visitors. We ask that all of us, including CMU faculty, staff and students, join together to deter illegal activity and help keep the weekend and those that follow a fully positive experience.”
Browne said any violations by Central Michigan University students will be reported to the university and could result in additional sanctions from the university through the Student Code of Conduct.
“Your adherence to the law will assist in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in Mount Pleasant,” he said. “Please take care of yourself and others.”
Browne said there will be an increased police presence during Welcome Weekend. He said officers are strictly enforcing all city ordinances and state laws.
These laws will mostly affect the student section of housing in Mount Pleasant along Washington, Main, University and Franklin streets. However, CMU police can also enforce these laws on campus.
BREAKOUT BOX:
Police will be enforce the following, summarized laws:
Illegal fires – No person shall kindle or maintain any bonfire or rubbish fire or permit any such fire to be kindled or maintained. Any person within 300 feet of a fire could be charged with a misdemeanor.
Alcohol violations – Open intoxicants are not permitted on public streets and sidewalks. Minors are not allowed to possess alcohol.
Assaultive behavior – Fighting or any assaultive behavior will not be tolerated.
Nuisance gatherings or disorderly conduct – Residents are requested to socialize in a peaceful manner. Large gatherings are discouraged and will be dispersed by police. Music must be at a level that will not disturb others, be thoughtful of your neighbors. Keep your yard free of trash and debris.
Code enforcement – No occupants shall access, nor permit access by others, to the rooftop of any structure. No indoor furniture is permitted on lawns, porches or outside the residence.
City Parking – So that emergency vehicles have access, do not block roadways or alleys. Vehicles in violation will be towed at the owner’s expense. Keep vehicles from blocking driveways and sidewalks.
To report any violations of these laws, call Central Dispatch at 989-773-1000. For a full list of city ordinances and laws, visit mt-pleasant.org.
