Dear Editor,
First off, I would like to say that I do not oppose policeaction against illegal consumption or disorderly acts. This issolely based on the actions of the university and the policies ithas been acting upon these last few weeks in its "Police Yourself"campaign. Like I said, I respect the laws and rules set forth bythe government and local police to protect us. I also believe,however, in students' rights and the belief of the police governingover the law and not a second party. These issues, I feel, need tobe addressed to the Ball State University administration. First,the recent idea of punishing someone for citations outside thejudicial system is absolutely absurd. Not only do I feel that thisinvades someone's personal life and their own personal issues, butthis also invites a double jeopardy. If you are not familiar withdouble jeopardy, it's essentially being prosecuted in court for thesame crime twice. I feel like this is the same double-edged sword.Why is it that BSU feels like it has the right to police our lives?Where does the administration feel like it can take personal legalissues and make it an academic issue? Is the law not enough? Ormaybe the crackdown that has been implemented by the police shouldhave been there in the first place and not have taken two studentdeaths to create a proverbial high ranking "foot" up the policedepartment's rear. As witness to a man last year committing fivecriminal acts that could face a $2,000 fine along with two years injail (and, yes, the crimes were that bad), right in front of myface and being just waved off by UPD, I can sincerely say that Iwould rather be protected by a tin can than have UPD protecting mein the case of a drunken man doing something to someone else orsomeone's private property.
Lastly, I believe that the university is right on with itsintents, but completely off with the actions it has taken to combatthe problem. These actions will only breed distrust between thestudents and the university and bring a fine line to be walked withthe UPD. There will always be tragedies; there will always bedeath.
By far, I think our university is very safe compared to otherplaces. I know that in my personal experience through violent andaccidental death of friends, Muncie in general is very calmcompared to others.
There is nothing the university can do to stop the intent ofsomeone with intent to harm another person, intoxicated or not.Education and greater (yet understanding) presence of the policeforce is the key, not "big brother"-like action and threatening themasses into following the law.
Michael Walthour
Senior Telecommunications Major
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