Appendix VII: How to Avoid Fines and Stay Safe

If you choose to drink alcohol, you are expected to do so legally, responsibly, and safely. In Maine, as in all states, the drinking age is 21. Underage drinking or providing alcohol to an underage person, illegal sale of alcohol, and providing a place for underage drinking are illegal in Maine. You will be subject to sanctions for such misconduct by Colby, local, and state authorities.

The irresponsible use of alcohol that leads to disruptive, abusive, or destructive behavior will result in serious sanctions.

Sexual Assault: Alcohol is often cited by both the victim and the assailant in situations involving non-consensual sexual activity. Such cases can result in grave consequences for both individuals. The victim may experience residual psychological issues and the assailant may face serious sanctions including suspension or expulsion from the College and criminal prosecution from local authorities.

Students must remain clearheaded if they choose to be sexually active. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and undermine the possibility for mutual consent.

Drinking and Driving: Maine has strict drinking and driving laws, and penalties include mandatory jail time and fines. Sanctions can also result at Colby, including suspension or expulsion. It is illegal for underage drivers to transport alcohol or individuals consuming alcohol.

Physical and/or Verbal Abuse: Alcohol can also contribute to violent outbursts of a verbal or physical nature. Serious sanctions can result, including suspension or expulsion from the College and criminal prosecution from local authorities.

Alcohol Intoxication: Intoxicated students place their health and well-being, as well as the health and well-being of others, in jeopardy. Intoxicated students or students concerned about the intoxication level of their friends should call either the Health Center (ext. 4460) or Security (ext. 5530) for assistance. Most intoxicated students are transported to the local emergency room for treatment. Parents are notified of these hospital visits and follow up is required with the Coordinator of Alcohol and Drug Programs at Colby.

Note: Local authorities visit the campus and may cite students for underage consumption, abusive use of alcohol, and/or drinking and driving. They also may cite students at the hospital and elsewhere off campus. For further information about alcohol and drug policies, consult the Colby College Student Handbook.

Hard Alcohol: You should be aware that hard alcohol can be particularly dangerous since it is more difficult to control and to gauge its rapid negative effects.

Off Campus Parties: Students who live off campus are under increased scrutiny by local authorities and neighbors to conduct social functions in a safe, respectful, and legal manner. Off-campus residents can be cited by local, state, and Colby officials for providing a location for underage persons to consume alcohol, for illegal sale of alcohol, and/or for serving minors and/or an already intoxicated person. If you are attending an off-campus party and you are underage and/or seriously intoxicated, you may also be cited by local authorities and are subject to College penalties.

Taxi Voucher System: If you are at an off-campus location and are unable to drive because of intoxication, you are urged to call Security (ext. 5530) to have a taxi dispatched. The cost will then be charged to your term bill.