Crackdown on tailgating at Notre Dame's campus?

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Posted: 9:15 PM Oct 4, 2008
Last Updated: 12:34 AM Oct 5, 2008
Reporter: Stephanie Stang
Email Address: stephanie.stang@wndu.com

120 comments

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Friday October 3, 2008

Some Notre Dame students and alumni say there is a crackdown on tailgating going on at the football games this year. Notre Dame officials say that has not been happening. The student body president is not even convinced that is the case.

Indiana Excise Police say the number of arrests hasn't increased this year.

On average, per game, 15 to 20 students are arrested for underage drinking.

The University hasn't changed its enforcement policy in five years.

But students are convinced they're being targeted for the smallest citations.

Bloggers at NDNation.com are sounding off too.

"It seems like more students are going to jail. It is actually custodial arrests than walking arrests, think it's kind of overkill when somebody under 21 is drinking to put them in jail for 12 hours," says Notre Dame Junior James McCaughan.

“I’m not necessarily aware of an increase in arrests. This is something that has been building over the years.. and we have heard stories of this nature over the past 3 or 4 years,” says Mike Coffey, a designer for NDNation.com.

Some students have complained to the student body president about the issue but he says they won't officially take up the issue until the next Board Of Trustees meeting in February.

Until then, they'll continue to study the matter.

Saturday October 4, 2008

Are more arrests for under-aged drinking being made at Notre Dame games?

Some students and alumni are claiming at crackdown on tailgating is going on.

Newscenter Sixteen tagged along with one of two teams from Excise Police out of Michigan City.

After following police Newscenter Sixteen watched them cited one Notre Dame student within minutes for under-aged drinking.

On average police say about twenty students are arrested each game for under-aged drinking. Police say that is about the same as last year.

The university also says their enforcement policy has not changed for the past 5 years.

Students say they feel they are being targeted. Many upperclassmen are citing a noticeable difference this year compared to last.

“I've been here for three years and I can tell you my freshman year is a world different than the way it is now,” says Notre Dame junior Brian Strickland.

“We're looking for those that are causing problems, drawing attention to themselves, ones that are so intoxicated that they can't function. It can be a danger to themselves or others,” explains Lt. Tim Cleveland from the Excise Police.

Ushers inside of the stadium are also trained to look for disorderly or belligerent fans. If an usher feels they need the fan can be kicked-out of a game.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: LTCAPT. Smith Location: Nova Scotia / South Bend on Jul 3, 2009 at 06:13 PM
I've been tailgating for 9 years. Each year the police have become more agressive twards students. They have become more as the R.U.C than that of protection. The students take responsability to be safe and do look out for each other. If Indiana would pay more attention to the high crime unsafe areas of south bend the whole city would benefit, but instead they bullie students for revenu.

Posted by: it's not pronounced Koz-i-us-ko.. on Nov 7, 2008 at 12:07 AM
Women arrested for meth lab are Elkhart teachers Elkhart bar bouncers take down gunman, protect patrons Sex offender accused of raping woman in Elkhart Police investigate another South Bend stabbing The police really have nothing better to do?

Posted by: Kendrick Location: Mishawaka on Oct 14, 2008 at 11:43 AM
What a joke. People we cant even have night games at the stadium anymore because why? The university syas of the alcohol problem. Its a shame because night were fun and the crown is always better at night. Other univeritys can handle it why cant we?

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 13, 2008 at 11:56 PM
the excise police are not to do anything but enforce illegal drinking. They do not fight what you call "real crime". That is why it isn't sbpd or county giving tickets. And sorry genius but underage drinking is a crime. Anything illegal is a crime... and by law drinking under 21 is illegal. Wow... again lack of common sense.

Posted by: Cops friend Location: SB on Oct 13, 2008 at 05:45 PM
Why don't those of you have a problem with excise doing their job call your legislator and get the law changed? You all complain but we will never know if one of the people arrested for minor consuming had not been arrested and killed one of your/my family members. These kids are not responsible - thus the law. Excise officers do a service for this community and the state and we should all be thankful that our roadways are safer today because of them. Do you know how many drug dealers/users, warrant arrests (murder) and OWI's excise officers arrest? A lot! I used to work in a jail. They do so much more than most of you will ever realize.

Posted by: Frank Location: SB on Oct 13, 2008 at 09:48 AM
I think those jack boot nazi police officers should focus on real crime and not tailgaiting fans who are on private property.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 9, 2008 at 10:18 PM
You have to be 21 to drink. Everyone knows that. Stop complaining becasue you are caught breaking the law. This whole thing is ridiculous. They are doing their jobs. Everyone who goes there and drinks that is underage is nervous. They are nervous becasue they know what can happen if they are caught. Don't go crying when you know the consequences. The lack of common sense and street smarts is just disgusting. Book smarts can only get you so far. Grow up!!

Posted by: Kyle Location: Indianapolis on Oct 9, 2008 at 06:42 AM
To agree with the anonymous on oct 8, 12:58pm...the same situation at Purdue a couple years back where a freshman was so inebriated he urinated on a transformer & electrocuted himself, or the countless people killed by drunk drivers everyday. Yeah, they're not driving at the time, but they will be as soon as the games is over. Its sad really. Two very simple things, though debatable but FACTUAL: 1. Yes or no question. Is it illegal as of today to consume alcohol under the age of 21? YES. period. 2. Notre Dame is known as the most prestigious catholic school in the nation & should be held to higher standards. That being said, it is a PRIVATE school, where religion is a fundamental foundation. Furthermore, The bible, which is something directly tied to being catholic school & attending a private catholic school, forbids drunkenness. Yes, both of these things raise plenty of debate but they are simple facts at this time. When I attended the school, I'm sure I didn't have this problem.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 8, 2008 at 01:58 PM
Chad I bet the parents of the 18 year old at Walbash College found dead in his vomit(from underage drinking) wish there were more excise police doing a better job. If this were to happen at good old Notre Dame there might just be a cover-up and no one would ever know. That's probably why you want to get rid of the excise police!

Posted by: Chad Location: South Bend on Oct 8, 2008 at 09:37 AM
And how many tickets did the other excise team cite? I bet a bunch. I wish "our man Mitch" would let these so-called police officers do some actual police work. There are 16 of these officers in our area that really have nothing to do, now that the bars can have gambling tickets and they don't have the machines to pull anymore. So, now, target the underage drinking. I sure hope they don't go to Corby's on a Saturday and bust them. Come no Mitch, get these guys doing some actual police work, like finding out why all the fires are happening in South Bend, or where the drug dealers are getting all their drugs from or any other countless things that are happening in South Bend that shouldn't be. I know underage drinking is illegal, but really, isn't there some other, more important things we should be worried about right now in our community?

Posted by: Joe Location: South Bend on Oct 8, 2008 at 05:25 AM
Underage drinking is illegal yes, but people need to ease up a bit. If it is disruptive or the person can't stand, then arrest the heck out of em, otherwise let people enjoy the pregame festivities. Besides, if the NDSP, excise police and others didn't travel in packs in order to increase the intimidation factor, MAYBE they would have noticed a US Senator's car getting broken into in the parking lot.

Posted by: Chris Location: Argos on Oct 7, 2008 at 07:41 PM
Drinking has no place in college? Are you kidding me? Have you been to college? It is very stressful, kicking back with a drink is a great way to unwind. I don't think i ever would of graduated if I was'nt able to have a beer or two after my work was done.

Posted by: HonestOne on Oct 7, 2008 at 03:00 PM
Oh how i wish it was JUST drinking...go by the Salvation Army on one of those days, all up and down the streets...they be getting high, drinking..acting rawdy all that...and the police dont do a dang thing...wanna know why. Its the MONEY they bring in. Its tradition to act a fool and get drunk around ANY football game. Kids be there too, Underage drinking is NOT a crime on a ND Home Game Day, try it any other time. You will be on the front page with comments posted about you..

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 7, 2008 at 02:37 PM
Tell those darn students to grow up! Rules are Rules--

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 7, 2008 at 01:50 PM
When I had the privilege to live in the Bend, it was a cesspool of drug related violence. I guess the issue a lot of people have is, don't authorities have better things to do? What is the bigger issue: a girl drinking with the consent of her family, or the guy selling crack to your kids? Students are generally docile and make an easy target. Chasing kids like this is a thinly-veiled scam to generate funds.

Posted by: Jim on Oct 7, 2008 at 09:10 AM
Post the video of the cameraman getting beat up. Come on WNDU! Report the whole story. I think they are hiding something.

Posted by: Proud SBPD on Oct 7, 2008 at 05:13 AM
Anonymous 948, If it wasn't for the dedicated men and women of area law enforcement this county would blow up! Officers work hard to keep people safe. You are ignorant if you think law enforcement doesn't keep things in line.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 6, 2008 at 10:48 PM
There's alot bigger problems in South Bend than the underage drinkers at Notre Dame football games. It's time to stop riding around on your horses in the Notre Dame parking lot (even though it makes you feel like a cowboy) and start locking up some of the real criminals that infest the streets of South Bend. The cops in St. Joe county are nothing but a bunch of lazy clowns who love shooting fish in a barrel rather than doing real, productive police work.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 6, 2008 at 09:13 PM
I sense that Dan from Nappannee is on house arrest.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 6, 2008 at 07:45 PM
If they are driniking under age then yes, they should be arrested. So what is there to cry about?

Posted by: Buford Location: Under the legal limit on Oct 6, 2008 at 07:11 PM
The quick solution would make Notre Dame a dry campus. However, no one will go for that. Arrest the underage and heavy fine to the over age, or lost their season ticket privliage. People make things to personal and too diffcult. Drinking has no place on a college campus no matter what age.

Posted by: Johnny Law Location: Granger on Oct 6, 2008 at 07:09 PM
Let's break this down into simple terms for all those who may not understand the law? One, if you are under the age of 21 and drink alcoholic beverages you are are guilty of minor consumption of alcoholice beverages! Two, if you are over the age of 21 and drink alcoholic beverages until you are intoxicated while not on private property you are publicly intoxicated! Kinda simple! What do they call someone who breaks the law? They call them criminals and most of the time they do GO TO JAIL!

Posted by: Dan Location: Nappanee on Oct 6, 2008 at 05:44 PM
Bottom line: if these students are not creating problems, why are these "tough cops" not out solving real crimes? Instead, all these Barney Fife characters want to act all tough in front of people and just create profits and not protecting people from real criminals and criminal activity that is really detrimental to our society.

Posted by: D Location: sb on Oct 6, 2008 at 05:43 PM
the guy on the news complained that if you blow over .08 you get arrested.duh,thats the law, if your under 21 its the law.just use common sense!

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 6, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Brian..there are 2 different venues, if you will, concerning where these alleged heavy handed tactics are taking place..the parking lots (tailgating) and the stadium. This story has to do with tailgating. I have been to the last 3 games also. I was tailgating and did not go into the games. The Police presence in the parking lots is not as large as some would have you believe. I have seen at the most 10 Officers in the parking lots as a group. Considering there are over 80,000 people in the lots I would say they (Police) are a little outnumbered. There are certainly more Officers in the stadium but again this particular news story was dealing with tailgating. Now I have seen this group of Officers, which includes Excise, in the lots and have seen them doing their job. All I have ever seen was professionalism and a lot of patience. I have also seen them joking with the fans and making sure those that were too drunk were taken care of without arresting them. That's serving & protecting.

Posted by: Jeff Location: South Bend on Oct 6, 2008 at 05:08 PM
Hello Stephenie... why in the heck did you title this story "Crackdown on tailgating at Notre Dame's campus?".??????????? They aren't cracking down on tailgating at all... just underage drinking. VERY misleading headline!!!!

Posted by: Pat Location: Shenandoah on Oct 6, 2008 at 05:04 PM
Notre Dame is trying to change its image, and trying to not have the rowdyness that has supposedly permeated the Tailgating experience at a ND football game. The real truth is that the University of Notre Dame(a private Catholic university) has the right to do this.....but ND had better be careful. Do not bit the hand that feeds you. It's all about the money.

Posted by: Charlie Location: Row 58 ND stadium on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:54 PM
I've seen two young women meet up with the police outside the stadium the last two games. The Purdue game a young woman that was drinking, but not intoxicated was given a ticket for underage drinking. Last Saturday before the Stanford game a woman of legal drinking age, (I heard her say she was 23) was completely gassed. The police helped her sit down on the grass. When they asked her for ID she fell over when she leaned over to reach in her pocket. I don't know where she ended up, but the gal was so drunk she stood out like a sore thumb. She was nearly inside the stadium when police noticed how drunk she was. I don't know what her friends were thinking when they didn't stop her from attending the game. The cops sure did.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:35 PM
Annie if you believe everything that was typed by an anonymous poster as being a reliable, factual story..then I have some great agricultural land I need to get rid of real cheap..Interested? Some of those stories are so far fetched its totally unbelievable. Some never happened and most contain only a fraction of the truth. WNDU has video of the behavior of one under 21 year old in which the behavior of this kid and her adult friends/family was so over the top that the Police had to step in to keep the cameraman from being attacked. This is the behavior where most people should go to jail.

Posted by: Brian Location: Chicago on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Also, to all of the South Bend residents spewing your hate for the ND students: look, we'd love it if the school was located somewhere that is not South Bend, Indiana. Hell, you'd probably love to live somewhere that is not South Bend, Indiana. But ND is stuck. You are not. May I suggest Columbus, Ohio or even West Lafayette? But seriously, keep biting the hand that feeds you....always a smart tactic.

Posted by: Brian Location: Chicago on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:16 PM
To Larry - There is no doubt that some of the people reporting stories have resorted to hyperbole or exaggeration. However, as someone who has witnessed the police presence and tactics for the first three home games, and had a friend removed from the stadium, (because he tripped, blew a .12, which I realize is over the legal limit for DRIVING,was taken to the drunk tank and summarily given a letter by Bill Kirk banning him from campus for life), there is something very wrong with what is going on at ND on weekends, and from what I gather, at ND and in SB the rest of the week. The heavy-handed nature is uncalled for and unprovoked. Look, I have no sympathy for underage kids drinking. I don't mind if they do, but they know the law. That being said, targeting every last person who is tailgating that might be under 21 seems to me to fall outside the scope of serving and protecting. Bust the rabble-rousers, not those sitting with their parents not causing any problems.

Posted by: Annie Location: Niles, MI on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:03 PM
Channel 16 is barking up the wrong tree. If you are under 21 and you drink, you take your chances. The main problem is that overzealous Excise cops are playing commando with fans who are OVER 21 and perfectly legal (thus the comments from ALUMNI). Instances like arresting someone, cuffing them, taking their belt and shoelaces and then making them march to the wagon for the ride downtown in their boxers because their pants fell off, all in full view of other fans. Or grabbing a disabled Iraq veteran by the neck, claiming he was drunk, when the real problem was that he was experiencing vertigo from being roughly grabbed where his war injuries were located. Or a female ND fan punched in the face by a Michigan fan that they didn't bother to arrest (must not have been drunk enough. Assault is okay, I guess). Excise is out of control. No longer is a ticket and a fine enough. Public humiliation/cuffs/bail (credit cards welcome) so the county can cash in, is the trend. Bravo, Excise (golf clap

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:03 PM
I love it ERIN!! I actually use that phrase all the time..."It's not Burger King"...... "you can't have it your way!!!" Love it!

Posted by: Chris Location: Texas on Oct 6, 2008 at 04:02 PM
I can understand the underage arrests. It's a risk that college kids take and some get burned. I for one think the drinking age should be 18, but it's not and the police can arrest you for breaking the law. But to be above 21 and blow a .08 and go to jail seems absurd. If you are driving that is one thing, but walking around at a tailgater or in the stadium after 2-4 beers shouldn't lead to jail time. If they are going to arrest people for PI then they should set up an actual BAC for what constitutes public intoxication and that should be well above the legal limits to drive a vehicle. Otherwise shouldn't everyone at a tailgater be arrested if they are consuming alcohol in public.

Posted by: DJ Location: Mishawaka on Oct 6, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Come on wake up,.... we all know the only reason for tailgating at ND games is for getting drunk and bragging about it the next day, if they can remember. I use to work at ND during Football Games and they all act like animals and the majority of fans I guess did not know what a trash bag was used for by the amount of trash left all over!

Posted by: HELO????? on Oct 6, 2008 at 03:41 PM
WELL IF YOU ARE NOT 21 STOP DRINKING!!!!! DUH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: NIGEL Location: SBI on Oct 6, 2008 at 03:13 PM
IM 25 I GUESS I CAN DRINK AS MUCH BOOZE AS I WANT. HAHA PO PO...

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 6, 2008 at 02:49 PM
Well Brian from Chicago it would be very easy for the mods from ND Nation to just ask for the stats regarding arrests and summons for the past few years. Instead they would rather have anonymous posters spewing their lies or at the very least half-truths regarding the whole situation. The environment they are creating, in my opinion, is one where the Police are questioned and resistance encouraged. When it is a home game this attitude will create a mob mentality, if left unchecked, and people will get hurt. ND is not doing anything that a lot of other major universities throughout the Country are doing. That is cutting down on the times that drinking is allowed and curbing underage drinking. This in turn cuts down on the number of alcohol related incidents, including injuries and death. Again the complaint about this "crackdown" on tailgating is a bunch of garbage. 15 to 20 students cited out of the thousands that are there is not a "major crackdown" as some would imply.

Posted by: Brian Location: Chicago on Oct 6, 2008 at 01:54 PM
Wow - South Bend residents are really showing their true colors in these messages. I knew that the town-gown relationship was strained, but wow, SB residents really hate ND students. No one in the Notre Dame family condones underage drinking or breaking the law. The larger issue at hand, especially with anyone on the ND Nation website, is the use of the very dubious "public intoxication" misdemeanor being applied liberally to those who have not been causing problems, but appear to be "drunk" whatever that means. Couple that with the ND Administration(ahem, Bill Kirk) handing out letters banning people from campus for life for such infraction (no matter what happens after the initial citation in or around the stadium) has made the contributing alumni quite irate and rightfully so. Trust me, South Bend residents, if the alumni could physically relocate the school to somewhere nicer, we would.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 6, 2008 at 11:03 AM
To Mike @ 7:53am..I highly doubt the Officers asked your son for a beer. And the goal of the Excise Police is to enforce the alcohol laws. That would include checking the I.D. of anyone who is drinking that appears to be under the age of 21. And by the way WNDU..I also would like you to air the tape where the 2 yahoos Mike was talking about became unglued. The patience and professionalism of the Officers during that incident was indeed revealing as to most of the attitudes these Officers have to put up with. Air that and then ask the moron President of the Student Council to give his take on how awful the Police are.

Posted by: Proud SBPD on Oct 6, 2008 at 09:18 AM
To Watching and Learning, You need to do a better job of learning. None of the prisoner gave a credit card to SBPD to get out of jail. They gave them to the SJCPD! It is a misdemeanor offense and the officers decided to ARREST them for breaking the law. That is called Officer's Discretion and they did NOTHING wrong by arresting these educated idiots.

Posted by: To Jill on Oct 6, 2008 at 08:57 AM
The west side has and produces an disproportionate amount of crime in the county as compared to any other area. South Bend School are a joke, and they need to call the west side what it is, a slum ridden ghetto.

Posted by: Mike Location: Mishawaka on Oct 6, 2008 at 08:53 AM
Please Lt. Cleveland spare us. The two people you busted in the story were just sitting not causing problems. How about when you're people asked my 16 year old son for a beer when he's just standing around empty handed with family talking to frends. Isn't that entrapment? There's plenty of drunks staggering around making fools of themselves ruining it for everyone. There the one's that should be busted.

Posted by: Jill Location: South Bend on Oct 6, 2008 at 08:24 AM
To Jim 's Email dated Oct. 4th. Is the West Side the only place with "real criminals" ? Seems like I just read about a PHM teacher getting arrested on child seduction charges. Crime is everywhere Jim! How a report of Excise Police cracking down on tailgaters suddenly requires a comment about the West Side is ridiculous. Make your comment about that situation and leave us out of it. Thanks!

Posted by: Myrt on Oct 6, 2008 at 07:46 AM
Hey everyone, I have news for you - NOT EVERYONE who is underaged drinking at the tailgaters are students. Many people from around the area who support ND come out and tailgate as well. Unfortunately, the few that do get out of hand ruin it for the rest of us.

Posted by: Jim on Oct 5, 2008 at 11:25 PM
Where's the video of the camerman getting his a** kicked by tailgaters? Let's see that WNDU.

Posted by: J Location: Granger on Oct 5, 2008 at 08:39 PM
i have to say, it is strange that Notre Dame is a Catholic school and allows this sort of behavior to take place on their property. Why??? I can tell you why, they charge money for parking spots the tailgaters use, without this money what would they do??? So they allow bad behavior to make a buck. Shame Shame Shame. Oh and WNDU is usually partial to ND so they won't print these sort of blogs that say bad things about NDs motives.

Posted by: watching and learning Location: south bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Proud SBPD: Of course it makes sense to handcuff someone who warrants being arrested and thrown into jail. But why does it make sense to arrest and throw into jail 20-21 year olds who have less than .08 blood levels, who are cooperating with the police, and tell them they can pee on themselves when they ask to use a bathroom? I heard all of their handcuffs were removed so they could get access to give the SBPD their credit cards to pay to get out of jail.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 5, 2008 at 08:14 PM
Anon 5:23pm..You sir should have started your post off with "Once upon a time". Your quotes on what the Officer "allegedly" said are so far off base that I am willing to say, "You sir, are a liar". I, for one, do not believe you and opine that you are making things up to fan the flames. If I am wrong post your name and where you were tailgating. WNDU I certainly hope you post this because some of these posts need to be checked, at least somewhat, for veracity.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 5, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Minor Consuming Alcoholic Beverages- I.C. 7.1-5-7-7 Class C Misdemeanor It is written as LAW. If you don't like it, change it. Until you have the POWER to do just that, your whines are useless. Instead of a little boycott at a meaningless pep rally, why don't you go to Indianapolis and rally in front of the governor's office. Or, better yet, to Washington and tell all of the men and women who make the laws in this state and country that its bull. See if they change it. While your at it, see if they will legalize marijuana, heroine and cocaine. Also, to do away with speed limits, seatbelt laws, child restraint laws etc... Cause, Dang it, you are OVER 18 you should be able to do whatever you want!!! One day you will grow up...hopefully.

Posted by: Erin Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 07:14 PM
Anyone who has watched these little ND geniuses in action while drunk knows why the University wants to keep it under control. Somewhere along the line, a good number of Notre Dame students decided that good SAT scores and high grades in their respective high schools' inflated grading systems bestowed upon them the right to live under a different set of rules. Last I looked laws at every level of government are written with the idea that all people are created equal. Allowing people to pick and choose which laws are important is not the idea…citizenship is not a buffet. Don't like it? Well, tough. We need to start teaching this current college generation they are entitled to NOTHING! You want respect? Then, you need to learn to earn it. Unlike Burger King, you may not have citizenship your way. God bless the officers who are giving these students the first shocking lesson of many-they are no better and no worse than anybody else. Ouch!

Posted by: Fan Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 06:41 PM
To teh Alum that complained about the Quality Glass tailgate at pole 12. I know first hand that people are checking I.D.'s out there and handing wrist bands to those who are of age. I saw 4 cops standing over there this past saurday. Get your facts strait buddy.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 5, 2008 at 06:23 PM
i was tailgating at the stanford game, minding my own business, when some fat, hairy cop came up to me mumbling something. im 22 years old and wasn't even drunk, but i couldn't understand a word he was saying. he's like, "gary, barell, whoa, shannon i love you" i'm like, what ever and walked off after showing my id.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 5, 2008 at 05:19 PM
True ND fan..are you really that ignorant? I certainly understand where you are coming from but last I checked smoking at 18 is still LEGAL. People that smoke are not an immediate danger to society like drunks are. Not all drunks, mind you, but the drunks that lose all inhibition and control. Not to mention the "mean drunks". And what part of the Officers being off-duty do you seem to have a problem with? If I were a cop I wouldn't want to do a thing. Some of you people are constant whiners and complainers and so called experts on how cops should do their jobs. I'd be willing to bet that most of this group would high-tail it the other way if trouble should happen.

Posted by: JAK Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 04:45 PM
I worry about these kids who are getting so drunk that they can't even stand up. I was at the game this past Saturday and saw a woman who just judging by her outfit was a student, probably about 20 years old so drunk that she could hardly stand up and was vomiting all over the place. With all the things going on in this society, she would have been an easy target for someone.. She's just one example.

Posted by: Tiffani Location: Warsaw on Oct 5, 2008 at 02:42 PM
I think that the kids need to remeber that they are not to drink until they are 21!

Posted by: chad Location: mishawak on Oct 5, 2008 at 01:27 PM
The laws dont change because of college football. If your under 21 drink at home! Us responsible, legal age drinkers, don't want to watch a bunch of young punks who cannot handle their alcohol anyways.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 5, 2008 at 01:21 PM
The university may have nothing to do with the arrests. ND police are not arresting people, excise police are. Complain to them!

Posted by: ToMrSBPD Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 11:06 AM
Why is it that you don't check up on the player's families then?? Is it because they're special?? Just because I don't attend a $25,000 a year Notre Dame doesn't mean I get treated differently.

Posted by: TRUE NOTRE DAME FAN! Location: Notre Dame on Oct 5, 2008 at 11:01 AM
Come on! If u can buy smokes at 18 and u can go to war and put ur life on the line for the country, and u cant even have a few beers at tailgating?? Police pick and choose who they want to pick at the games, just like on the STREETS!!!! The may want to worry about the REAL crime like shootings,killings, etc!

Posted by: Todd Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 09:56 AM
nd fan from marine base camp pendelton, CA-your statistic is WAY off. Not every college student drinks. Those who do just assume everybody else does. That is how they justify underaged drinking...everybody else is doing it. Well..no they are not. Are there a lot that do, sure, but not as may as you might think. Studies and interview with college students show there are really only two types of college students for the most part..those that binge drink and those that don't...the number in between is pretty small. Laws are laws and are not open for interpretation unless you are a judge. Don't like it then move to somewhere the laws are in your favor. Those who do happen to have 18 year old drinking laws are oddly enough ones that are asking for government loans right now. They do not get federal highway monies and loose other assistance for that choice.

Posted by: UND STAFF Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 09:48 AM
To my understanding the University Of Noter Dame has a "ZERO TOLERANCE" policy about drinking and drugs on campus.... Well then why is it allowed at all??? Double standards I guess!

Posted by: To Erin @ 6.28 Location: Plymouth on Oct 5, 2008 at 07:54 AM
You are a student at the all mighty Notre Dame and use the phrase "who have gotten in trouble"? Don't they teach basic english at the almighty Notre Dame?

Posted by: Don Williams Location: South Bend on Oct 5, 2008 at 07:25 AM
Yes they may be cracking down on underage drinking, but if you go over to the player's family side you'll notice that none of the police even walk through there and there are plenty of underage drinkers in there. If your going to crack down be consistent.

Posted by: Julie on Oct 5, 2008 at 06:25 AM
Many of you have the "everybody does it" - "all colleges drink" mentality. Well murder happens everywhere, child molestation happens everywhere, rape happens everywhere. So, which one of you wants to volunteer to be the next murder victim?? It's the same logic you are using to defend this moronic egotistical behavior on the campus during tailgating. To the Anon at 8:45 who said there was an altercation with the excise police that the media witnessed; I certainly hope the media pursues publishing this!! To nd fan from Camp Pendelton - I highly respect our soldiers, however you really do ND a disservice defending them especially since your grammar & spelling are so poor. Perhaps you've had one too many tailgate parties yourself as a teen? The fact here people is that the law is the law. If ND wants this community's respect, then they need to gain it by showing the community respect back - they can do that by encouraging adherance to the law on campus.

Posted by: Proud SBPD on Oct 5, 2008 at 05:17 AM
To watching and learning: It is jail policy that anyone being brought in that is under arrest MUST be handcuffed. Don't like that, tough. I handcuff EVERYONE I take in. Underage drinking and public intoxication is also an arrestable offense and the officers involved don't have to justify why they arrested anyone to you. Maybe you might be more concerned with all of those students VIOLATING THE LAW.

Posted by: Larry Location: SB on Oct 5, 2008 at 02:12 AM
For those that don't know these Officers are being paid by ND not by your taxes. These Officers are all off-duty and working the ND games as second jobs. My beef with all of this is if only 15 to 20 kids are being busted out of the SEVERAL THOUSAND that attend these games..where exactly is this huge crackdown. I go to all the games and tailgate. I have not seen one bit of difference the way the Officers act this year as opposed to any other years. What I do see is a bunch of spoiled kids who want to do whatever they please and don't think the laws should apply to them. Hey if your underage and want to play grown-up and drink..fine. Just don't cry like a baby when you get caught. Continue being a grown-up and accept responsibility for your own actions. If you wanna risk it..accept the consequences.

Posted by: Anon Location: S. Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 11:21 PM
To Brent: ANY BAC level is ILLEGAL if they're UNDERAGE!! I'm not saying I "never" did it when I was underage - I'm simply saying we "locals" who did it would get busted for it at some parties - it happens. They learned the lesson - these precious "students" should, too. (At least we were a little smarter than doing it at a public evente like that - hello!)

Posted by: Charlotte Location: Niles, MI on Oct 4, 2008 at 11:06 PM
Is the law the law? And are police just to turn the other way if it is Notre Dame students who are doing under-age drinking? Why are people complaining about something that EVERYONE knows full well is the law. Come on, get a life

Posted by: priorities on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:35 PM
Am I the only one that wishes these budget dollars would be re-directed to the increasing number of meth labs that I keep hearing about. Or the rampant crime on the west side that a few west siders are in denial about?

Posted by: Inquisitive Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:03 PM
I listened to your video on the web site and something's not adding up. I know a friend who left a football game last year with a cup of beer and was walking back to his dorm. He was walking and talking and the Excise police grabbed his cup, looked and sniffed it and asked for his ID. He was a few months shy of 21 and was arrested. He was not drawing attention to himself, he was not causing problems, and he could function properly. They are randomly spotchecking people who are not posing a problem. And what about the bust of 37 students at an off campus house? There were no complaints from neighbors, but they acted on a tip? No one there was uncooperative or disorderly yet they used custodial arrests on all of them, handcuffed them, broke down doors with crowbars inside the home and brought their dog unit. They lied and told all the students they had to take breathalizers. They mocked them and wouldn't let them use the bathroom at the jail. Way over the top for both incidences.

Posted by: Brent Location: southbend on Oct 4, 2008 at 09:31 PM
The issues I have been hearing is that people are not only being kicked out but sent to a "holding cell" inside the stadium, even if they breathe less than a .08 are subject to the cell. Than once the cell is full, they get a ticket to the county jail for a night. I feel that only half of the story is being told and officials at ND and police are keeping it under wraps.

Posted by: watching & learning Location: South Bend, IN on Oct 4, 2008 at 08:50 PM
I think it would be wise if the student body president looked into if the crack downs on tailgating (and the recent off campus gathering) could possibly be sanctioned by Res Life. How else could one explain why the arm of the university called "Student Affairs" has remained completely silent on the manner in which tailgaters and the 37 students on Colfax Ave. were treated by the Excise Police. Why isn't the issue of custodial arrests being questioned? Why isn't the use of handcuffs for those who are cooperating being questioned? Why isn't heckling of the students being questioned? And why does this arm of the university want students to be made examples of at the expense of their right to be innocent until proven guilty, and right to be treated with a modicum of respect, and right to privacy? How can the university not expect ND students and alumni not to be outraged? In any human relationship (between ND and police, between students and administration), respect begets respect.

Posted by: doug Location: s.b on Oct 4, 2008 at 08:48 PM
break the law, pay the price. some of the students just don't get it.you think your so special just because you go to n-d that people should look the other way.I have had to deal with alot of smug, arrogant,whining n-d students over the years and i will tell you it gets OLD!!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 4, 2008 at 08:45 PM
This is amazing. I witnessed the excise police approach a young lady clearly not 21 years old at todays game. They were verbally abused and met with hostile tailgaters. Not students but alumni. The abuse these officers took was incredible and yet they were very professional. What is even more amazing is that your reporter and camera man were there and recorded the whole thing. The camera man was about to be attacked and punched by a man and none of this made your news. Amazing. These officers are clearly doing there job and you failed to report this accurately. The only thing that saved your camera man from getting his rear end kicked was the excise officer who stepped in and stopped it. And you fail to report it. This is biased media if I ever saw it. These officers need our support not biased media reporting.

Posted by: nd fan from marine base camp pendelton, CA Location: marine base camp pendelton CA on Oct 4, 2008 at 08:18 PM
Please just shut up! We are all brain less if we think that 'NO ONE DRINK UNTIL THEY ARE 21". That is a joke, so you are honestly going to sit here and say that none of you had a drop of alchool before the age of 21, I will call you a liar! I agree that the kids should be held acountable for there actions, and I think that a 12 hour stint in the drunk tanks is good. Now if you had the same 15-20 kids getting arrested every weekend, that might call for more drastic measures, but please be a logical thinker here, its not about they think that they can get away with it because they are 'NOTRE DAME STUDENTS" THEY DO IT BECAUSE 95% OF COLLEGE KIDS DO IT AT HOME FOOTBALL GAMES. I am sure if you looked into the numbers at some of the schools near us, that we would see a bigger number of arrest for not only underage drinking, but of age drinkers being drunk in public, its one of those things that you have to learn to deal with. There are pros and cons to everything. So relax, GO IRISH!

Posted by: the other Jim Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 07:50 PM
Jim the 18 year olds that are on active duty can drink in the clubs on post. Maybe you need to raise your hand and enlist then you could drink to.

Posted by: RODNEY Location: SOUTH BEND on Oct 4, 2008 at 07:16 PM
TO JIM, YOU ARE REALLY STUPID. DO YOU REALLY THINK THAT THE ONLY PLACE THE LAW IS BROKEN IS ON THE WEST SIDE? WHAT MAKES YOUR CRIME OF UNDER AGE DRINKING ANY LESS A CRIME? DOES BEING WHITE MAKE YOU ABOVE THE LAW? DOES BEING WHITE AND NOT LIVING ON THE WESTSIDE MAKE YOUR CRIME DIFFERENT FROM THOUGHS ON THE WESTSIDE? LOOK IDIOT, A CRIMANAL IS A CRIMANAL! ALL CRIMES SHOULD BE DELT WITH. IF BEING A STUPID RACIST WAS A CRIME YOUR SMUG &@# WOULD GET LIFE. I HAVE TWO SONS WHO HAVE BEEN TO IRAQ (2 TIMES EACH) I MYSELF WAS THEIR DURING THE FIRST WAR, AND GUESS WHAT THOUGHS WHO SERVE IN THE SERVICE CAN DRINK A BEER WHILE ON BASE AT THE E-CLUB (18 YR AND UP). SO THERE IS YOUR ANSWER IDIOT, HITCH UP AND JOIN AND STOP TRYING TO BE REWARDED FOR THE WORK OF MY TWO WESTSIDERS.

Posted by: Amanda Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 07:16 PM
Jim, I hate to tell you but the laws in Indiana state that the legal drinking age is 21. If you are under that age and drinking you are breaking the law, thus you are a real criminal! Also as a resident of the west side I am deeply offended by your statement. Crime happens every where, even on the Notre Dame campus. So if the "real" criminals are congregating anywhere it's in the parking lots of your precious school, not my backyard.

Posted by: Terry Heeter (Weeble Wobble) Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 07:08 PM
I guess my thoughts are too contreversal to be posted but I speak TRUTH. Is not reporting about truth? Perhaps you have not had the chance to read my post, but either way I appreciate it Mrs/Ms.Stang. The news asked me to post what I think and I did.

Posted by: mike Location: west side on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:57 PM
Far to long Notre Dame and their students have had special privileges in this town. If you brake the law then reap what you sow. Last time I checked no one was forced in to the armed services. Further more if the students could hold themselves to the reputation they project, oh wait that's too much for the average Notre Dame student. Further more WNDU should apologize for allow the comment about the west side to be aired not only is it offencive its inaccurate. We are people just like everyone else. We take the brunt of what the city allows Notre Dame to get away with.

Posted by: Terry Heeter (Weeble Wobble) Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:54 PM
When the football players got busted at the party in South Bend, they set the standard for the drinking policy. It is their action that caused the upgraded security for tailgate drinking. To blame it on anyone or anything else is by definition illogic. Captain Trent wants to uphold the law, after all it is his job. I beleive that underage drinking is a crime it reads so in police prop. handbooks. As for the silly inclination that justifying eighteen year olds should be able to drink, because they can die in Iraq fighting for their country is absurd. When you have finished a tour in infantry or marines and you are still under 21 coming home for R&R the military issues you a license to obtain alcohol. So if you want drink underage.. do a tour. Until then, it is still illegal for persons under 21 to consume alcohol. Call me Serpico, but underage drinking is still a crime and should be handled so.

Posted by: Anon Location: S. Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:45 PM
To Jim: I agree, any 18 year old serving in Iraq deserves to drink a beer for risking his life to protect us and our freedom. However, spoiled ND students who seem to think they're simply above the law because they are ND students DO NOT "deserve" to drink - they are just immature idiots.

Posted by: D Location: South Bend Westside on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:44 PM
To the idiot that said police should crack down on the west side instead of tailgators, you are assuming that the problems are in that side of town, you are so wrong. This city shares it crime equally. Crime happens on the southside, eastside,and westside. You need to move out of this town. It is people like you that are not supportive and sit by and hope things get better. What have you done for this city? Oh ya, you rather drink beer and look stupid at a football game than possibly help our communities improve. Keep your negative comments to yourself you look stupid.

Posted by: Nanci Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:42 PM
Shame on you WNDU for reading racist, uninformed viewer comments on air! Your viewer's comments read during the 6:00pm newscast re: cracking down on 'The real criminals on the West Side' were given inappropriate airtime. We all need to understand that breaking the law is breaking the law.....underage drinking is illegal, and 18 year olds going to Iraq have nothing to do with 18 year olds drinking while tailgating! Notre Dame is a wonderful University, but NO ONE - 18 year old ND fan or not - is above the law. Taking responsibility for one's actions begins while tailgating or anywhere else....pinpointing the entire West Side as criminals only teaches those 18 year olds irresponsibility, and discrimination, and condones their law breaking behavior as somehow 'better' than those who break the law in other ways. Premium jouralism should not include racism or the attention to such classist, racist comments.

Posted by: Long time ticket holder Location: ND Parking Lot on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:42 PM
Look, if your drunk, than your drunk. if you stick out from thousands of people, then you should be questioned and if found as a problem, then arrested. Otherwise, the people the University asks to come, spend money and most who are business supporters or alumni, or ticket holders should be allowed to enjoy the day. Driving is a whole other issue. We are talking about PI charges. If ND is so concerned about drunks being on campus, why don't they provide check points on Fri. and Sat. nights at campus entrances for students if that is their concern? Sounds like local authorities want to make a story and capitalize on a situation that has been around for years and has gotten better, since they already banned people from being by their cars during the game. Even more reason to watch the game at home. Besides, unless you buy a ticket from a scalper you can hardly find one locally under $100. The cities want all the profits that come with ND. To tell me city officials don't partake? whatever

Posted by: Jeff G. Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:42 PM
I happened to know a usher at N.D. who drinks more than any student could dream of. Give me a break !!! Talk about double standards...

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:41 PM
Underage drinking is underage drinking - PERIOD. This "I shouldn't be subject to the same rules as everyone else because I'm an ND student mentality" disgusts me. ND students deserve NO special treatment (just goes to show that they're typical, spoiled brats that leave bad tastes in many "local's" mouths!) Tip underage, spoiled ND students: If you're tailgating and under 21, don't drink! There will not be an issue then. Trust me, they didn't get every idiot out there. I can't tell you how many swaying, walking drunks I saw in my errands through the S. B. Ave area today (one girl was even puking and crying at the edge of Martin's parking lot). I don't know about anyone else, but that is something I don't care to witness as a RESIDENT here. Keep up the good work arresting them!

Posted by: Deller Location: The West Side on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:40 PM
This comment is directed at the coward "anonymous" that made the comments about the west side of South Bend. I strongly suggest you keep your mouth shut because your ignorance is showing. Unless you have lived, worked, devoted your time, and gone to church in this area, you know not what you speak. No one under 21 should be allowed to drink. Why should an under 21 tail-gating party have alcohol at it anyway? As far as the criminals are concerned(for the west side) why dont you suggest that the police go to Granger to find the criminals that were breaking into homes with the home owners present. Shut your mouth until you can get your facts straight.

Posted by: Erin Location: Notre Dame on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:36 PM
I am a 21 year old student at Notre Dame and I can attest to the fact that students are being unfairly targeted. At least 3 of my 21 year old friends have been arrested for drinking. None of these individuals were belligerent, rowdy or dangerous. This is in addition to friends who have gotten in trouble by Notre Dame residence life or South Bend police for having parties at their homes offcampus, even when all of the people present were 21. Shouldn't we be collaborating our security forces to target things like crime, sexual assault, etc? That seems to be much a more pressing problem than people drinking on game-day weekends, especially when they're 21.

Posted by: D. Henry Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:36 PM
Police are treating drunks exactly like they should. I doesn't matter if its on campus or not. Indiana laws apply to the campus, just like the streets of South Bend. If your under 21, it is against the law to consume alcoholic beverages. If you don't want to get arrested, don't drink and especially don't drive and drink.

Posted by: Aaron Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:35 PM
This has become a police state and with less tailgating freedom each year. I am not sure of any other country that has a drinking age of 21.

Posted by: Anita Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:35 PM
Jim the west side? So the white boys should not be arrested, but the blacks and mexicans should? Get a clue.

Posted by: Robert Location: Niles on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:35 PM
If that 18 Year old was in Iraq, I would buy him that beer. He / she's not and it is against the law for 21 & younger to drink.

Posted by: justin Location: mish on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:19 PM
Tailgating happens at every collage. they can't stop it. What doe's notre shame exspect? All the fans stand around holding hands singing kom by ya. no wonder Im a michigan fan

Posted by: Tailgater Location: Elkhart on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:41 AM
We have tailgated for years. Yes, there is plenty of alcohol out there. Most people behave themselves and know their limits. But there are always a handful of people that don't know when to say when. In past years, excise cops and mounted sheriff's deputies would roam the parking lots and take care of these idiots. This year, they are hassling everyone. Usually, our group of tailgaters has one bunch that goes into the game and the rest of us stay out by the car, sit in our lawn chairs and listen to the game on the radio. A few usually walk to the bookstore to spend money. But this year, we were told we had to go inside the Joyce to watch the game or leave. It was so unnecessary for them to give us a hard time. This week we decided to skip going out altogether and will be spending our money at a local sports bar. We aren't ND students or grads, just locals trying to support the home team. After being treated like criminals we will think long and hard before going back.

Posted by: Mitch Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:15 AM
Brady, you as well as the rest of the student body are clueless. ND is not doing this. It is the State Excise police ...that is their job. ND cannot tell them to stay away and would risk their tax status and ability to have a police department if they did so. ND students boycotting a rally is only hurting themselves and the team that they supposedly love. It's not like the University officials can have a magic meeting this morning and overturn state law. Get a clue.

Posted by: Todd Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:11 AM
Well Jim...what you guys are not thinking about is if you lower the drinking age to 18, the state looses federal highway money. Do you want your excise and other taxes to go up because some brat can't wait till they are 21...I don't. The kid in the video just does not get it...they are arresting now because of kids like him who think it is no big deal if they get a ticket. It's not sinking through. ND cannot do jack about it, so they need not to complain to the trustee's. They don't allow drinking in the dorms..isn't the stadium university property? It is a proven fact that today's 18 year olds are not near as mature and mentally developed as an 18 year old 15-20 years ago...especially guys. The answer is not to lower the drinking age, the answer is to teach these kids to respect laws.

Posted by: NH Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 10:04 AM
I believe the cracking down is needed if its needed. I myself enjoy tailgating and have so for many years and I believe its ok to do in moderation. I have also had the luxuary to visit OSU recently and can tell anyone on here and in the SB area that if you think the tailgating is bad here, don't move to Columbus. Anyways my point being, I am glad to hear these ND PLAYERS! and students are going to jail if they are way to drunk and being stupid. Leaving empty kegs and beer cans all over your front lawns (WOW how did we get caught?). I personally believe ND should crack down on there rules, if your a player and get caught drinking underage or if you are of age. You are suspended for a season. If you get caught a second time, you are thrown out. And of course regular Indiana state laws should ALWAYS apply as well. And this goes for the regular student body as well.

Posted by: Jim Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Lower the drinking age to 18. Quit making drinking a beer a crime. We send 18 year olds to die in Iraq, they deserve a beer. Drinking at a taigate party shouldnt be a crime. The police should arrest real criminals on the west side, not some kids having fun.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 4, 2008 at 09:23 AM
The underage drinking problem at Notre Dame represents a true failure of Notre Dame Administration. As long as the President of the University of Notre Dame and staff under him ignore the problem on campus of under age drinking this will continue. The campus is closed and under age drinking is visible throughout the campus. It is only natural Notre Dame Students think the laws will be over looked when off campus. Something needs to be done before innocent lives are lost by the failure of the Notre Dame's Administration to control alchol both on and off campus. Shame on Notre Dame's Administration!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: ND on Oct 4, 2008 at 09:19 AM
More beer please.

Posted by: Julie on Oct 4, 2008 at 09:08 AM
15-20 students are arrested per game for underage drinking? We're calling that a crack down?? Then I'm guessing they're just totally ignoring & walking past the other 1,000 or so? Must be who ya know? Personally, I'd say it's about time they do some real serious "cracking down" on the underage drinking (& the over the limit legal drinking for that matter also). This economy pours thousands of dollars into worshipping the great & mighty Notre Dame while ND does nothing but provide a poor at best example by their pathetic drunkeness behavior. All I've learned from the ND example over the years is that if you want to act like an arrogant jerk attend Notre Dame. If you want to drink your self into a coma with the churches blessing, become a Catholic.

Posted by: Coach Location: Louisville on Oct 4, 2008 at 08:43 AM
Get real, the alcohol rules were the same when I was an ND student over 50 years ago. However back then most of us were smart (mature) enough to play it cool and not overdo it and get caught. If caught breaking the rules against intoxication, expulsion fron school was often the punishment. It was strictly the ND way or the highway (31 south in my case) and no internet blog to boo hoo to.

Posted by: N Location: Mishawaka on Oct 4, 2008 at 06:12 AM
It doesn't seem like they are cracking down more than usual, but they should. Not only is it illegal, it is also dangerous & a menace. Locking one up for 12 hours is not overkill. It is like a slap on the wrist.

Posted by: Annon Location: South Bend on Oct 4, 2008 at 05:58 AM
Give me a break! If these kids want to play in the adult world and drink before they are supposed to then let them sit in jail for 12 hours and think about the consequences! Im tired of those students trying to throw thier mommy and daddies money around when they try and get out of breaking the law! They think its all fun and games until someone gets hurt! Why not investigate how many students get taken to the hospital for alcohol poisoning too! They are out there crying because they should get walked back to their dorms instead of going to jail just so they can end up in the hospital unconscious! Grow up and show the world the money your parents are spending is going to your education and not to hospital bills and bonding from jail! Heaven help the first 19 year old who kilss someone because they got in the car wasted after a game to get more alcohol with their underage friends.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: South Bend on Oct 3, 2008 at 10:54 PM
why do people tend to think just because it's Norte Dame that they should have special treatment your human just like everyone else and same rules need to be applied to you just like everyone else

Posted by: EX ND FAN on Oct 3, 2008 at 10:34 PM
Notre Dame hates it's fans,thats why I hate ND,you can't tailgate during the game and so on, blah blah Get a life ND your losing more fans than you gain,so keep up the BS politics!!!

Posted by: dave Location: sb on Oct 3, 2008 at 09:11 PM
boo-hoo zero tolerance you were warned.

Posted by: Mark on Oct 3, 2008 at 07:59 PM
Gee, and I thought underage drinking was against the law. Apparently, the Notre Dame students (whiners) don't think Indiana law applies to them.

Posted by: Robert Location: Goshen on Oct 3, 2008 at 07:54 PM
Hasn't anyone wondered why these ND students who are supposedly very bright, just don't abstain from drinking booze if they are underage? It is a very simple concept: if you are too young to drink legally, then don't drink. Then, no matter how strict the enforcement may be, it won't matter. Same thing goes for drugs or any other illegal activity. Being a Notre Dame student is a great privilege and honor. Why risk it all for a drink? I don't get it... nor do I feel sorry for any ND student who gets in trouble for drinking. If they think they can't have fun without alcohol, then they are not as smart as they think they are.

Posted by: Alum Location: South Bend on Oct 3, 2008 at 07:12 PM
They aren't doing enough. Have you seen that Quality Glass tailgate at pole 12? It is out of control with a DJ and all, then they up and leave and don't clean up after themselves. Just leave a big mess for someone else to clean up. CLASSLESS!!!

Posted by: WTF! on Oct 3, 2008 at 06:53 PM
You Domers have nothing to complain about do you? You complain when you get arrested when you BREAK THE LAW! You brats need to taste the real world for a change and quit demanding special privileges because you go to Notre Dame. You are smart enough I hope to realize that underage drinking and drinking to excess are both CRIMES. Maybe not be as bad as murder, but crimes none the less. You guys disgust me!

Posted by: Brady Location: Michiana on Oct 3, 2008 at 06:47 PM
Fire Bill Kirk, and fire Cappy Gagnon. The are stealing the passion of Notre Dame. I am proud of the student boycott of the Pep Session. Notre Dame's is Disneyfing the school and program. It is sad. Shame, Shame, Notre Dame. Lost its fans at a football game.

Posted by: Drunkcatcher Location: SB on Oct 3, 2008 at 06:27 PM
Never heard of people being held accountable for being falling down, drunken, "I'm a law student and I know my rights", mouthy, entitlement seeking idiots on gameday? Good! If you can't responsibly (keyword) handle liquor and football games with manners, they should be taking you to jail until you sober it up. (TIP: it takes your body about 1 hour for every BAC level "point" you have, by the way)

Posted by: kathy Location: south bend on Oct 3, 2008 at 06:24 PM
Good!!! Just because they go to ND does not mean they are above the law. Just because they are at a ND game does not give underage students the right to drink. Grow up and quit thinking you are somebody just because you go to Notre Dame.