Halloween-Related Fines in Isla Vista

Students planning to party in Isla Vista for Halloween might want to start saving up. Especially those hoping to break the rules.

“The majority of our crimes are alcohol related,” said Lt. Rob Plastino with the Isla Vista Foot Patrol Unit. “Drunk in public types of arrests, urinating in public. Hopefully those will be on the decrease. The Associated Student Body stepped up to the plate to provide porta potties on Del Playa in Capps park so people can actually use a restroom as opposed to trying to find a dark space and end up getting a ticket.”

And the fine is often steeper than the line is long at the keg. For example, if you’re caught drunk in public expect a fine of at least $260 dollars.

Maybe you’re so intoxicated, you forgot to put on your pants or blouse. Tack on another $305 dollars for public nudity.

If you drink heavily and need to relieve yourself, find a restroom. That “urinating in public” Plastino mentioned will also cost you $260 dollars.

Another common sight: Walking around with an open container. That will set the offender back $260 dollars.

And those are estimates. Court fees and other fines could be higher.

Plastino cites the biggest number of tickets handed out last year: 136 people were arrested for being drunk in public, 93 minors were arrested for possession of alcohol, and 87 people landed behind bars for having an open container.

Law enforcement officials expect those numbers to be higher this year since Halloween falls on a Thursday. They’re expecting big crowds to follow, Friday and Saturday nights.

Hundreds of officers from within the U-C system have been recruited to help patrol the streets of Isla Vista during the long holiday weekend.