Q & A with the Isla Vista Foot Patrol
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The Isla Vista Foot Patrol is a cooperative effort of the Sheriff's Department,
the University Police, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) ensuring a unique
approach to law enforcement in the community. Preventive patrol is primarily on
foot and bicycle, which makes both officers and citizens more approachable. Regular
services include answering calls related to crime, complaint, injury, illness, fire,
custody, and disposal of lost and found property, as well as providing for the peace,
safety, and security of persons and property in the community. The Isla Vista Foot
Patrol office is located at 6546 Pardall A, 681-4179.
Q: What are the most common arrests/citations in Isla Vista?
A: The most common (physical) arrest in Isla Vista is for public intoxication. People
are arrested for public intoxication when they are considered to be a danger to
themselves or others as a result of their level of alcohol or other drug intoxication.
It is up to the deputy or officer to determine if the level of intoxication meets
the criteria for arrest. The most common citation is minor in possession of alcohol
(MIP). MIP citations can be given to any person under the age of 21 who is in possession
of alcohol no matter where they are or how much they have had to drink. (See page
46 for fines and penalties.)
Q: How does an officer make the determination about whether to arrest someone for
public intoxication?
A: The primary factor is whether the intoxicated person has the ability to care
for him or herself. Officers will also consider whether the person is currently
a danger to him or herself or others based on the behavior that is displayed. If
someone has difficulty standing or walking, isn't aware of where they are, or doesn't
seem to know where they are going, an officer will usually be concerned enough to
arrest them.
Q: Are there quotas for MIP arrests?
A: Quotas are not used by any law enforcement agency in the State of California
and have been declared unconstitutional.
Q: What is the definition of an open container?
A: Citations for violation of the open container ordinance can be given to any person,
regardless of age, who is drinking from an open alcohol container on public property.
A container is considered open if the seal has been broken (so even when a cap has
been put back on a bottle it is considered an open container). A tapped keg is also
considered an open container.
Q: What is considered "public property" in Isla Vista? When can an officer go on
private property?
A: Streets, sidewalks, alleys, parks and other open spaces owned by the County are
considered to be public property. For enforcement purposes, an officer can go anywhere
that is open and accessible to the public. Officers can enter a home when there
is probable cause to believe a crime is being committed, or to investigate a crime
that just occurred. The rules of search and seizure and private versus public property
are too extensive and complicated to address in this handbook. If an officer or
deputy can articulate a reasonable level of suspicion (based on training and experience),
or has probable cause to believe a crime is being committed, that officer can enter
private property.
Q: Are driving rules enforced for bicyclists in Isla Vista?
A: The rules for bicycles on a road are essentially the same as for motor vehicles.
Based on the California Vehicle Code, the laws apply equally. For example, both
bicycles and cars are required to stop at all posted stop signs; and both driving
and riding under the influence are illegal. The California Highway Patrol work in
Isla Vista to specifically enforce the bicycle rules. Following the rules of the
road and riding in a responsible, safe manner will prevent accidents and injuries.
Q: How can we keep our parties from getting out of control?
A: Limit the number of guests and the amount of alcohol that is served, and monitor
your guests. If you are having a party that exceeds your ability to maintain control,
call the Foot Patrol or dial 911. If you host a party you are responsible. Be sure
to obey the Noise Ordinance which prohibits loud music/noise after 10:00 pm from
Sunday to Thursday, and after midnight on Friday and Saturday. If the noise level
is too high after these hours, you will be issued a citation.
Q: What are the most common crimes committed against students in Isla Vista?
A: Residential burglary and battery are the two most common crimes committed against
residents/students in Isla Vista. Burglaries occur when someone enters a residence
with the intent to steal property. In Isla Vista most residences are not locked.
Laptop computers and other electrical equipment are the items a suspect is most
often looking for. The open party is another opportunity for a stranger to enter
and steal from the residence. Cell phones and bicycles are also stolen at an alarming
rate in the Isla Vista community. Battery is common due to the number of violent
fights in Isla Vista, especially after judgment has been impaired by intoxication.
Vandalism of vehicles and damage to property are crimes that also affect many residents.
As in any town, be sure to lock your doors and windows when you are away as well
as at night to reduce the chances of intruders.
Q: How can I keep my bike from being stolen?
A: Bike theft is a huge problem in Isla Vista and on campus. Here are a few tips
that can help you prevent bike theft: buy a good lock and lock your bike to something,
register your bike with the Community Service Organization at the University Police
Department, and keep a record of the make, model, serial number, and license number
of your bike in case it is stolen.
Q: Can I make an anonymous report of suspicious activity or a crime happening in
Isla Vista?
A: The Santa Barbara Sheriff's Web site has an anonymous tip line (www.sbsheriff.org). You can also call "We-Tip" at (800) 782-7463 or 911 or any Sheriff's/Police station
to report a crime and remain anonymous.
Q: What should I do if I think I'm being treated unfairly by a Foot Patrol Officer
in Isla Vista?
A: Even if you believe you are being treated unfairly by an officer or deputy, allow
the officer to finish his/her business, citation, or arrest. This is not an appropriate
time to question the way you are being treated. If you have a complaint you can
call the Foot Patrol Office or come in to speak to the officer or his/her supervisor
at a later time. If you believe the treatment you received warrants a formal complaint,
you can obtain a complaint form from any of the Sheriff's sub-stations or headquarters.
Q: As a student, how can I have fun, stay safe, and stay out of trouble in Isla
Vista?
A: This can be answered with one very simple statement: use common sense. You are
an adult and are expected to act like one. When students get in trouble with law
enforcement we often hear, "why are you doing this to me?" Take responsibility for
your own actions. Be aware of the consequences of using poor or impaired judgement.
If you use common sense, you'll be able to have fun, stay safe, and stay out of
trouble.
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