Increased numbers of University Police, Security Officers and Ambassadors were on patrol this weekend and will maintain an increased presence through Tuesday for Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn. During the weekend festivities, UPD reported six liquor law violations by minors and three other intoxication-related incidents.
In an emailed statement to The Cavalier Daily, UPD Assistant Chief Christopher Easton said officers and ambassadors will be vigilant and ready to assist if needed for the community celebrating Halloween. There will be extra security and police officers at Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn.
“There’s always a lot of excitement and fun in the air at this time of year, which brings a lot of students out,” Easton said. “With the increased presence comes an increased opportunity for accidents to occur.”
The university’s tradition of Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn – where Lawn residents and members of student organisations hand out candy to families in the Charlottesville community – will take place this Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. Organisers moved the event an hour earlier than last year, citing safety and accessibility concerns.
According to the University’s 2022 Fire Safety and Security Report, there has been an overall increase in crime on Grounds since 2021, including homicide, aggravated assault and motor vehicle theft. This follows a general increase in crime in Charlottesville.
Over the weekend, which saw many early Halloween celebrations, UPD reported six liquor law violations by overly intoxicated minors. An additional three reports involved intoxicated individuals, with one fondling incident and two drunkenness incidents.
This is an increase on the previous weekend when there were three liquor law offences and one charge of drink-driving.
Ahead of this past weekend, Christopher Holstege, interim vice president and chief student affairs officer, sent an email to students on Thursday reminding them to stay safe over the weekend and use alcohol responsibly.
“We encourage you to make decisions this Halloween weekend that protect your health and safety and do not negatively impact friends and others,” Holstege said in the email.
Student Council President Tichara Robertson also emailed a reminder to be aware of avoiding insensitive or offensive costumes that invoke racism, cultural appropriation or insensitivity to victims. Robertson also said students should stay safe and make logical decisions.
“Between the extra police officers, security guards and ambassadors, there will be plenty of eyes and ears to help if needed,” Easton said.