Spring break is often accompanied by underage drinking, an offense law enforcement officials say can lead to citations with long-lasting consequences.
ASU Police Cmdr. Jim Hardina explained the different types of underage drinking tickets typically issued on campus.
Hardina said alcohol possession, alcohol consumption and operating a vehicle with alcohol in the body are considered misdemeanors.
The three offenses are often referred to as minor in possession, minor in consumption and driving under the influence.
Arizona’s zero tolerance policy means that even with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or lower, if you’re underage, a DUI can be issued, Hardina said.
The most common place for ASU Police to discover underage drinking is in the dorms, Hardina said.
Hardina said, according to the Underage Drinking Enforcement Training Center, underage drinking cost Arizona $1.2 billion in 2010. That figure included medical care, work loss and pain and suffering associated with underage drinking. This translates to $1,994 per year for each youth in the state.
Karen Moses, the director for ASU Wellness, said drinking could cause physical damage as well.
“Consuming alcohol can have negative health effects for anyone,” Moses said. “Some of the most serious health issues are: being injured while drinking, either in a motor vehicle accident or a fall, etcetera; alcohol poisoning ... combining alcohol with other sedating drugs, which can also cause death.”
Moses said ASU promotes positive choices and healthy decisions through its wellness department, exposing students to useful information that could prevent MICs and other offenses.
“Through ASU wellness we provide poster campaigns, information on our website and Facebook page and education in freshman classes and residence halls," Moses said. “We offer Web-based assessments and online courses that address underage drinking in a variety of different ways.”
These types of citations should especially concern students focused on academic success for future professions, Moses said.
“Getting cited or arrested for underage possession or consumption can interfere with a person’s eligibility to pursue certain careers, such as in law, teaching,” Moses said.
Moses suggested students avoid high-risk drinking and consider other means of socializing, such as getting involved in school organizations, outdoor activities and hobbies.
For students who choose to drink underage, Hardina’s advice is simpler: Don’t do it.
Reach the reporter at inovak@asu.edu
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