The University Police (UP) already are planning to make NIU’s Homecoming weekend safe and free from criminal activity.

Police Capt. Jim Webster said the UPs will be out in full force during the dances and the concert Saturday night.

About 10 officers will be assigned to the football game. What is unusual is not the number of officers assigned to the dances or concerts, but the number of events taking place this weekend, Webster said.

A concert, a dance and a football game all will take place on Saturday. Either contracts or university regulations require a certain number of officers to be assigned to all three types of events. For all three to occur in conjunction with Homecoming would require essentially the entire UP force.

Webster said there is no history of substantial increases in crime or rowdy activity during Homecoming, but added there would be more people in town than usual. He said the increased enforcement will help to prevent crime.

Webster said the UPs especially will be on the lookout for DUIs, underage drinking and fighting.

The DeKalb Police will operate with a normal or slightly larger than normal amount of officers, according to Police Lt. Richard Moudy. He said weekends normally are busy in his jurisdiction and there is slightly more activity during Homecoming.

Beyond limiting some vacation time and adding one or two officers, Moudy said he did not anticipate this weekend to be any different. The only exception would be about 15 officers assigned to the parade Saturday morning.

NIU has taken steps to enforce the laws against underage drinking and fighting aside from events such as Homecoming or Family Weekend.

NIU Judicial Office Director Larry Bolles said about two years ago NIU made some policy changes requiring increased security at dances and concerts. About the same time, fines for illegal consumption of alcohol were increased as well.

Webster, Moudy and Bolles all said they agree students should be able to enjoy themselves this weekend without getting into any trouble.