Amnesty policy

To the Editor:

We are concerned that the manner in which your medical amnesty article ("Student: Amnesty Guideline Violated," DP, 4/17/06) was reported may confuse readers, and we wish to clarify this important issue for students.

The medical amnesty clause states that no student will be subject to University discipline for the sole violation of using alcohol. As DPS expressed to the reporter when consulted for this story, the Penn Police acknowledge the amnesty policy because it is important that students who are in need of medical care as a result of alcohol consumption do not forego medical treatment for themselves or their friends for fear of retribution.

In fact, over Spring Fling weekend, the Penn Police transported several students to the hospital for medical treatment related to alcohol consumption without incident. However, the difference in this case arose when the student in question committed another offense during the course of being assisted. Specifically, the student became abusive to the first responders, causing the police to charge her with disorderly conduct and underage drinking as a related offense.

Unfortunately, this -- and other information about this issue from the law enforcement and student conduct perspective -- was not fully represented in the article. Moving forward with an incomplete portrayal of the issue will only jeopardize the safety of our students, who may now have the incorrect impression that the amnesty policy stands on shaky ground. As we approach Hey Day and Penn Relays, we ask that students commit to making wise, informed decisions and know that their safety remains our first priority.

Mark Dorsey and Stephanie Ives

The authors are the chief of the Penn Police Department and the director of the Office of Alcohol Policy Initiatives, respectively

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