I was very disappointed to read the university police plans a zero-tolerance approach to alcohol laws around campus. According to the article, “UCPD plans zero tolerance on alcohol use” (Sept. 19), UCPD had a policy of giving warnings to students observed breaking the law. The new policy will result in fines and, according to the UCPD’s spokeswoman, students “will lose their license” if they are caught while under 21.
Certainly, some alcohol-related offenses are extremely serious, such as drunk driving. Other offenses, however, such as public intoxication, should be handled delicately around a college campus.
Many bright young people make harmless mistakes, and it would be a serious error to punish them in ways that could affect their lives.
A student who loses his or her license might find it difficult to attend classes, and may even have difficulty with future employment opportunities.
Simply put, the UCPD’s new plan is a terrible idea.
Derek Lazzaro is a UCLA alum from the class of 2005.