BPD Increases Police Presence around BC

In an effort to maintain safety and order in Boston's communities, the Boston Police Department (BPD) reported they are increasing their patrol in areas heavily populated by college students.

This new initiative is an attempt to minimize neighborhood disturbances and to enforce a zero tolerance policy for public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Kirsten O'Driscoll, assistant dean for Off-Campus Student Life, serves as a front line of communication with students residing off campus. Recently, she notified students of the heightened police presence, stressing that their "decision to engage in loud, disruptive and/or high risk community behaviors, especially involving alcohol, may result in arrests or citations by the Boston Police Department as well as disciplinary action by Boston College." In order to prevent student arrests and court appearances, O'Driscoll and the Office of the Dean for Student Affairs continue to work to educate students about the expectations and responsibilities that come with the choice to live off campus.

In situations where the police do get involved, O'Driscoll said that they arrive with the purpose of dispersing a party as quietly as possible to prevent a huge disruption to the neighborhood. Many times, cooperative behavior results in those present being allowed to leave. However, the tenants will always be held responsible for letting a gathering at their residence get out of control and a citation is often issued for the disruption.

It is also important to note that the BPD is not singling out Boston College students in their new initiative.

"We work closely with each institution and pay very close attention to those individuals who are intent on not following the law and who continue to wreak havoc in the neighborhoods of Boston," said William Evans, the superintendent of BPD, in a letter addressing the BPD's increased patrol. He said that this heightened patrol is not to be received in a negative fashion, but rather as an expression of the genuine concern for the overall safety and welfare of both BC students and those residing in the City of Boston. "Please keep in mind that you play a role in our effort to ensure the that the City of Boston is a shining example of academic excellence and pride," he said, in the letter.

O'Driscoll said that the increased community policing initiative has had a positive effect thus far, as the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs has received fewer reports from Boston Police. In addition to student safety, the University also plans on maintaining positive neighborhood relations.