St. Cloud Police issued more than 310 citations to 240 people during SCSU’s move-in weekend, most of them involving alcohol. That’s an increase from last year, when 226 total citations were issued. 

Of this year’s citations, 121 were for open bottle violations and 115 were for alcohol consumption by a minor. Of the 115 minors issued, about 100 of them were directed toward a new diversion program, which is a partnership between the city and the university. Under the program, violators are required to undergo about 90 minutes of alcohol education in the classroom. St. Cloud City Attorney Matt Staehling says first or second time violators are eligible for the program.

Also last weekend, 14 people were cited under St. Cloud’s new social host ordinance, which makes it illegal to host a party where underage drinking is present.