The increase is expected.

East Lansing police report a sharp increase in the numbers of tickets and arrests as MSU begins its fall semester Move-in.

The math is simple.

The return of Michigan State students equals increased activity for East Lansing's police force.

A weekly summary of arrest and citation statistics sent to News 10 by the East Lansing police indicates a dramatic increase in unruly behavior this past weekend. The statistics issued Monday do not indicate whether or not those arrested or cited are MSU students.

From Friday, August 26th, through Sunday August 29th E.L.P.D. made 28 arrests on the charge of minor in possession of alcohol, and 11 arrests for open intoxication. 91 citations were issued for minor in possession and 136 for open intoxication.

The previous weekend, August 19-21, there were 4 arrests for minor in possession of alcohol, and no arrests for open intoxication. 6 citations were issued for M.I.P. and 3 for open intoxication.

East Lansing police spokesperson Capt. Kim Johnson says the numbers are not unexpected and very similar to the same move-in weekend from last year.

Capt. Johnson says the police department brought in more officers for this past weekend. They say that will mean more police contact with the public and more tickets and arrests.

Capt. Johnson adds that despite the increased activity, disorderly behavior is is much less than it was two years ago, before MSU officials shortened the amount of time students had to move onto campus.

Posted: 2:08 PM Aug 29, 2011
Reporter: News Ten