Massachusetts Colleges Prepare for Super Bowl Security
Source Associated Press
AMHERST, Mass. (AP) - University of Massachusetts officials are taking steps to head off Super Bowl related disturbances at the Amherst campus.
About 100 campus security officers will be on duty, along with about 200 residence hall employees. Campus police from UMass-Worcester and UMass-Boston also will be on hand.
After 6 p.m. on Sunday, only UMass-Amherst students with valid identification will be allowed in residence halls.
Door-tags in the university's 41 residence halls will encourage students to celebrate in a fun, safe way, but also remind them of the consequences if they are charged with disorderly conduct, failure to disperse, destruction of property, or inciting a riot.
``We're making it very clear to everyone there will be consequences,'' UMass spokesman Edward F. Blaguszewski said.
After the New England Patriots' 2002 and 2004 Super Bowl victories, police had to contain thousands of celebrating students at UMass. Eighy-five students were arrested last fall after violence that followed the Red Sox league championship and World Series victories. One student was expelled, 11 were suspended, and 73 given deferred suspensions.
``Students have the right to gather, assemble and celebrate,'' said UMass Police Chief Barbara R. O'Connor. ``The problem is when individuals cross the line.''
Boston-area universities also have announced plans to try to prevent violent Super Bowl celebrations, including increased police presence and alcohol-free campus parties.
