This letter is in response to the article “Spotlight program targets underage drinking” (SN 3/1).

It seems the “Spotlight” program is yet another attempt of the East Lansing Police Department to harass students in an attempt to cut down on victimless crimes. Instead of filling jails with violent, dangerous felons, the goal is to fill them with drunken students and drug users while collecting fine money.

The “Spotlight” program seems to be a step toward this goal, by obviously targeting students who either attempt to purchase alcohol underage or buy for their underage friends.

The point here is not that citizens who have not yet reached age 21 would be able to drink. The point is that it seems that police should have something better to do with their time than arrest young adults who are attempting to temporarily alter their state of mind.

The argument is made that underage drinking results in tragedies - the same tragedies result when people of legal age consume alcohol. Using a fake ID or purchasing alcohol for others shows only disrespect for the law. More violent crimes such as vandalism, sexual assault and assault show disrespect for others and the community.

Perhaps police departments should focus their efforts on these crimes rather than being obsessed with a 20-year old’s Saturday night plans.

Mary Krizan
political science-prelaw junior