Law enforcement officials from both the city and the university said their departments are increasing staff numbers for St. Patrick’s Day, but, as the holiday falls near the middle of the school week this year, many students might forgo an all-night celebration for some shuteye before classes.
MSU police Sgt. Florene McGlothian-Taylor said she expects little issue on campus, with most students adhering to their academic responsibilities rather than staying out late, getting too drunk and causing a ruckus. Nonetheless, the department is increasing staff for both the day and night shift.
“I think because it’s going to be during the week, that cuts down on problems,” McGlothian-Taylor said. “Most have classes the next day, so we’re not expecting it to be a large problem.”
Marketing junior Sarah Belcher faces an 8 a.m. class on Wednesday. So St. Patrick’s Day celebration will be an early one if she and her friends decide to go out, Belcher said.
“If we do do something, it probably won’t be too late on Tuesday,” she said.
Accounting sophomore Nick Kipper said he prepared ahead for the night, studying and getting work done over the past two days to clear time for the holiday and make his three classes on Wednesday, starting at 11:30 a.m., a little smoother.
Most the problems faced by law enforcement that night will be cityside, in East Lansing, McGlothian-Taylor said.
With an additional officers patrolling East Lansing, from the bars to the streets, the department is well prepared for one of the biggest drinking nights of the year, East Lansing police Lt. Steve Gonzalez said.
Similar to a football game day at home, officers will be primarily focused on enforcing alcohol laws and noise violations, Gonzalez said. Typically on St. Patrick’s Day department resources are tied up with incapacitated individuals who have drank too much and require medical attention, he said.
“If you’ve ever been in town for St. Patrick’s Day, (you know) it’s a big,” Gonzalez said. “The primary thing from our standpoint is that we want people to have fun and celebrate responsibly. Our officers’ primary goal out there is that everyone’s being safe.”
If students under 21 are intoxicated and in need of medical attention, they are exempt from legal repercussions under Medical Amnesty if they or their friends seek emergency help.
