Law enforcement around town is bracing for an increase in calls as the infamous party week kicks off tomorrow.
Protect IU released a "Party Playbook" to promote safety on and off campus as the spring party season begins.
The playbook advises students to walk in groups, keep their phones charged, verify the vehicle they are getting into is from the ride-sharing service they used and to be honest with police.
“Remember, police are here to keep you safe,” the guide reads. “Tickets are expensive, but police cannot ignore violations of drinking and other laws designed to help keep people safe.”
The guide also lists a few "Party Penalties," such as carrying a fake ID, drinking underage, providing minors with alcohol and going to parties with drugs.
Individuals who are not using drugs can still be charged with visiting a common nuisance if they are somewhere where illegal drugs are being used. Being host to a party with illegal drugs can lead to a felony charge of maintaining a common nuisance.
The playbook also advises using IU’s safety escort service in situations that seem unsafe.
The service is available from 8 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. every day. Drivers are IU students who pick up individuals in white or silver minivans with a black IU trident on the side.
The IU Police Department also planned its third annual "Cookies with Cops" event for Wednesday from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. for students interesting in learning more about safety during Little 500.
“Learn important facts about how to have fun without getting stuck picking up trash Sunday morning,” the event description reads.
The Bloomington Police Department and pizza places around town printed 1,700 fliers about the Indiana Lifeline Law. The fliers will be distributed before and during Little 500 to promote the law, which can protect individuals who report crimes or call for medical help.
The law offers protection to those who call for assistance from police, even if they’re drinking underage. There are a few stipulations to the protection offered by the Lifeline Law, so read about those before invoking it.
BPD and IUPD are also increasing their presence on campus and around the city as Little 500 weekend approaches.
“It’s Little Five, so we’re getting ready,” BPD Sgt. Robert Skelton said.
