OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Oshkosh Police are trying to get out in front of incidents at pub crawl, before they happen. Last month, Oshkosh City Council gave them a new tool to do so.
“We have this new ordinance, it’s a party nuisance ordinance that will give us some more enforcement options so that we can address alcohol related parties,” said Oshkosh Police Department Public Affairs/Crime Prevention Officer.
Officers will look for:
- Underage drinking
- Providing alcohol to intoxicated persons
- Excessive noise or crowding
- Obstructing streets or sidewalks
- Littering
- Disorderly conduct
- Violent behavior
Officers can now issue a citation that carries a fine of $263 for adults.
“We have some specialty teams in the area, so that includes our mobile field force and our drone team, but then also extra patrol for this event so that if there is an incident that takes place, we’re able to respond quickly,” said Mann.
“I’m glad they are doing something because you know the past couple semesters there has been pretty serious gun violence going on,” said UW-Oshkosh senior Alexa Herman.
“Police cracking down on it is something I think is for the best of people. You know, it’s definitely not what people want, to have fun and whatnot but when you’re thinking about people’s safety and whatnot, it’s definitely something you got to consider. Police cracking down on it’s going to be a step towards that,” said UW-Oshkosh senior Andrew John.
Police arrested a 17-year-old boy who had a handgun at pub crawl last October. In April, a 23-year-old man shot one person in the ankle.
Although unsanctioned by UW-Oshkosh, many of its students host parties and take part in pub crawl. Mann says the Oshkosh Police Department has tried to spread the word with patrols over the past few weekends.
John said he heard police were going door to door from other students. Herman, his neighbor, did not.
“I have not gotten any communication through the police department or any mail like that just word of mouth and social media,” said Herman.
Herman and Andrew say they feel like the safest option for any student who is over the age of 21 is to avoid areas with house parties and instead to go downtown to the bars.
“It’s under supervision and we’re the legal age to drink. With all the things going on right now, not really knowing what is gonna happen, probably just the best and safer way,” said Herman.
Police say they’re trying to make the event as safe as possible but strongly discourage people from participating.
