Libraries in the Rapid City SD region have taken differing approaches to dealing with intoxicated patrons, often specifically banning intoxication. Brenda Thomson, the library’s community relations coordinator, said staffers call police to deal with drunken or passed-out patrons about once a month.
On a weekly basis, though, the staff deals with less-intoxicated patrons. “A lot of it comes down to staff observation,” Thomson said. “If we see someone stumbling around or smell the alcohol, the staff will try to get right on it.”
some
Why is just prohibited by some? Isn’t public intoxication illegal? A misdemeanor in many states. If something is illegal the police SHOULD be called by all libraries. This should not really be a library policy – it’s probably dealt with in the statues and the decision already made for each library.
P.I.
To get charged with P.I. you normally have to be doing something obnoxious to draw attention to yourself, like pee in the bushes. I don’t think it ought to be a crime for someone to be above a certain BAC level in public who is otherwise minding their own business and NOT a clear & present danger to themselves or others.
some
you are right – My 1st comment didn’t show it, but I “assumed” that the reason anyone knew they were intoxicated was due to behavior…