Oct. 14, 2003
LAS VEGAS - UNLV will enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding disruptive behavior as part of a beefed up security plan for Sam Boyd Stadium that goes into effect beginning with Saturday's Homecoming football game vs. Utah.
"We need people to understand that if they are disruptive and fighting, they will be ejected, and if they resist, they will be arrested and prosecuted," UNLV Director of Athletics Mike Hamrick said.
In response to an unacceptable level of incidents in the stands at the Sept. 19 game vs. Hawaii, Hamrick formed a task force that included campus and facility officials along with law enforcement. On Tuesday, the group announced the following measures for all home games:
? Enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy will give both UNLV Campus Police and Las Vegas Metro Police the authority to eject and/or arrest and prosecute offenders of stadium regulations.
? A significant increase in the presence and visibility of both Metro and campus police in the stadium and in tailgating areas.
? Sam Boyd Stadium security personnel will increase its visibility by wearing brighter, yellow uniforms instead of white.
? A roving team of Metro officers will work in the stands and be aided by spotters monitoring the crowd for disturbances.
? While the alcohol regulations remain intact, the athletics department reserves the right to discontinue the sale of alcohol at any time.
? Those ejected from the game or tailgating areas may be banned from the stadium and be subject to trespassing charges upon return.
? UNLV will re-evaluate seating locations for student and visiting team sections in preparation for the 2004 season.
? Additional promotion of the Good Sport program, which is available to fans who believe they are unfit to drive because of excessive alcohol consumption. The designated drive program gets fans home safely in their own vehicles at no cost.
? As part of an increased effort to curb underage and excessive drinking in all parking and tailgating areas, tailgating must end 30 minutes prior to the start of each game, which will be indicated by a warning sound from the stadium. The use of devices that promote excessive drinking is not permitted and will be confiscated. Also, for safety reasons, no glass containers will be allowed in the reserved tailgate area.
? An informational flyer will be distributed to fans entering the stadium outlining the policies regarding behavior. Signage outlining the zero-tolerance policy will also be posted at each entrance.
"We are not trying to take away any of the enjoyment or fun of attending a Rebel football game," Hamrick said. "However, we are working to eliminate the very few individuals who try to ruin the experience for everyone. I am a new Las Vegas resident myself with three young children and I want to make sure they are able to enjoy a safe and exciting atmosphere at Rebel sporting events along with all fans."
