Many incoming college students might be surprised to find out there are police on campus, but rest assured that the University of Oregon Police Department is here to keep you safe, secure and informed via the variety of services. They’re not out to get you.
Why are they here?
The UOPD is more focused on keeping the campus community welcoming and secure than busting students for having a good time (as long as it’s controlled).
According to Kelly McIver, communications director and public information officer for UOPD, “our officers and the Eugene police officers would much rather be dealing with actual criminals that are coming onto campus stealing bikes and laptops than dealing with students that are intoxicated.”
Watch out for Campus Crime Alert
Campus crime alert is one service offered by the UOPD. Email alerts notify members of the community of crimes on or near the UO campus and allow people to take the proper precautions.
Remember your rights
A big question: can the police enter your room if you refuse open your door in the dorms? According to McIver, “it would depend on the necessity of the situation.” For example, a burglary attempt is handled differently than any suspicion of a controlled substance. Tip: your resident assistant decides whether police involvement is necessary or not, so be nice.
The ticket that will ruin your Friday night (and your record)
It’s more than likely at least one person you know will get a ticket for being a minor in possession, more commonly known around campus as an MIP. The way to get a ticket for Minor in Possession is being just that.
“In our community, your body is treated as a container so possession doesn’t just mean ‘I have a beer,’” said McIver. “It means ‘I have alcohol in my body, as well as on my person.’”
The consequences of getting an MIP, or any ticket for that matter, is a hefty fine and, most likely, your first court appearance.
Avoid getting into trouble
Best advice: be respectful to police when interacting with them. McIver suggests if you feel you’re being treated unfairly, take notes and file a complaint afterward. Looking cool in front of your friends isn’t so fun when you get arrested.
“Don’t be obnoxious, don’t steal stuff, don’t do the kooky things that you saw in that movie, and you’ll probably be fine,” said McIver.
DuckLife is the Emerald’s magazine for incoming freshmen, made available during IntroDucktion. This story has been reprinted from the magazine in its original form.