Having attended MSU from 1998-2004, I have witnessed my share of riots and celebrations firsthand. With the exception of the 1999 riot, all have been created or prevented by the oppressive cowboy antics of an overbearing police force.

In 2000, when we won the men's national championship, the police took a very laid-back approach to crowd control. With estimates of up to 20,000 people taking to the streets to celebrate, there were relatively few problems.

Then in 2003, the police used a much more aggressive show of force, and in turn faced some backlash and mild rioting. This latest "civil disturbance" was a glowing example of an out-of-control police force with little regard for the people they are sworn to protect and serve.

I have found that the reality is that it is only the residents and businesses that are to be protected and served, while the students continue to be treated as second-class citizens. It's time for a massive review and overhaul of the East Lansing Police Department.

Kelly Welsh
2004 graduate