University of Southern Indiana

Alcohol and Drugs

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  1. Alcoholic Beverages on USI Property 
  2. Legal Implications 
  3. Medical Amnesty 
  4. Parental/Guardian Drug and Alcohol Notification Policy
  5. Health Risks of Alcohol/Effect of Alcohol Intoxication
  6. Health Risks of Other Drugs 
  7. Resources 

The University of Southern Indiana is a dry campus meaning no alcohol is allowed on campus regardless of the students' age. For information on the use of drugs and alcohol and how they can impact students, be sure to check out http://www.usi.edu/rfw/aod

POLICIES RELATED TO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND/OR DRUG/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE USE 2.1.1

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON USI PROPERTY  

The manufacture, sale, transfer, purchase, transportation, possession or consumption of an alcoholic beverage anywhere on University-owned or -controlled property (including University-owned or -leased vehicles, regardless of location), or as a part of any “University Activity” as that term is defined by the University; for alcoholic beverages, is prohibited by the University; exceptions are granted by the president or his/her designee.

Alcoholic Beverages at Student Organization Events

Recognized USI student organizations planning events where alcoholic beverages may be served must adhere to the guidelines established by the University. See Student Organizations and Activities Policies

Behavior While Under the Influence of Alcoholic Beverages and/or Other Drugs/Controlled Substances

Being under the influence of alcoholic beverages is a violation of this code when a person is on University-owned or controlled property (including University-owned or leased vehicles, regardless of location), or as a part of any “University Activity” as that term is defined by the University, and the person: 1) endangers, or may endanger, the safety of others, property or themselves; or 2) causes a disturbance.

Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor

Contributing to the delinquency of a minor is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, purchasing alcoholic beverages for a minor, giving alcoholic beverages to a minor, encouraging a minor to drink alcoholic beverages, etc. 2.1.5 Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Other Drugs/Controlled Substances Driving while under the influence of alcoholic beverages or illicit drugs/controlled substances on University-owned or controlled property (including University-owned or leased vehicles, regardless of location), or as a part of any “University Activity” as that term is defined by the University is prohibited.

Drug/Controlled Substance Related Violations

Being under the influence, possessing, manufacturing, exchanging, distributing, purchasing, using, selling or emanating the scent of illegal drugs or any controlled substance, including marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, abuse of over-the-counter drugs, inhalants, prescription drugs, etc., except pursuant to a physician’s/dentist’s prescription, or possessing paraphernalia for drug use on University-owned or controlled property (including University-owned or leased vehicles, regardless of location), or as a part of any “University Activity” as that term is defined by the University is prohibited.

  • Being in the presence of drugs/controlled substance(s)
  • Possession of drugs/controlled substance(s)
  • Possession of drug/controlled substance paraphernalia
  • Use of drugs/controlled substance(s)
  • Purchase of drugs/controlled substance(s)
  • Possession and or use of prescription drugs without document prescription
  • Manufacturing of drugs/controlled substance(s)
  • Distribution and/or sale and/or delivery of drugs/ controlled substance(s)
  • Emanating the scent of marijuana

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Legal Implications 

If you are under 21 and...

Alcohol magically appears in your hand
It is a class C Misdemeanor to possess or consume an alcohol beverage under the age of 21.  As part of your sentence, the court may suspend your driving privileges suspended for up to one (1) year and if you are under eighteen (18) years of age, the court shall order your driving privileges suspended for at least sixty (60) days.

  • You try to buy alcohol at a store
    It is a class C Misdemeanor.
  • You use a Fake ID
    It is a class C Misdemeanor and your driver's license could be suspended.
  • You visit a local bar or tavern
    It is a class C infraction.

 If you...

  • Buy or provide alcohol to a minor
    It is a class B Misdemeanor.
    It is a level 6 felony if it ends up injuring someone and a level 5 felony if someone is killed.
  • Are drunk in public
    It is a class B Misdemeanor to be intoxicated in a public place.
  • Drive a motor vehicle while drunk
    It is a class C Misdemeanor if your blood alcohol content is at least .08 and less than .15 and a class A misdemeanor if your blood alcohol level is at least .15
    If it causes someone injury, it is a level 6 felony and if a death is involved it is a level 5 felony.
    Your driver's license may be suspended.

 Possible Penalties

  • Class C Misdemeanor = Up to 60 days in jail and up to a $500 fine
  • Class B Misdemeanor = Up to 180 days in jail and up to a $1000 fine
  • Class A Misdemeanor = Up to one year in jail and up to a $5000 fine
  • Level 5 Felony = one (1) year to six (6) years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
  • Level 6 Felony = six months to two and a half years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine

Felony convictions may affect the rest of your life. You may be unable to receive financial aid for school, you may be prohibited from some professions, and many employers are not willing to hire you.

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Medical Amnesty 

The University recognizes the Senate Enrolled Act. No. 274 amendment to the Indiana Code, effective July 1, 2012, which outlines when a person who meets the criteria of the act, is immune from criminal prosecution. When a student is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs/controlled substances and seeks medical assistance, s/he may be granted amnesty from formal disciplinary action by the University for violating alcoholic beverage or drug/controlled substance policies. Upon receiving a report that a student needs medical assistance, University personnel will respond and officials will use standard procedures for documenting and collecting information for all parties involved. Conduct charges will be deferred and will be dismissed upon successful completion of an approved alcoholic beverage or drug/controlled substance intervention program, leaving the student with no reportable disciplinary record. Failure to successfully complete an approved alcoholic beverage or drug/controlled substance intervention program, as required, will result in the processing of charges and may result in more severe sanctions. For more information on the Medical Amnesty policy and University procedures, visit www.usi.edu/rfw/aod.

PARENTAL/GUARDIAN DRUG AND ALCOHOL NOTIFICATION POLICY

Background

This policy action was made possible as a result of an amendment to the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in 1998. Prior to this amendment, universities were prohibited by law from releasing disciplinary records of students 18 years of age or older without their written consent. The amendment provides the opportunity, should a university choose, to notify the parents of students under the age of 21.

Goal

It is the goal of the University of Southern Indiana to expand the partnership between parents/guardians and the University in encouraging students to make healthy, responsible decisions about alcohol and other drugs.

Details of Notification

If a student under the age of 21 is found responsible for a violation of the University code of conduct drug/controlled substance and/or alcoholic beverage policy, Housing and Residence Life or the Dean of Students will notify the student’s parents/guardians in writing. This notification will detail the fact that the student has been found responsible for an alcoholic beverage or drug/controlled substance violation. The notification is designed to inform parents/ guardians that the violation has occurred and to encourage discussion between parents/guardians and their student regarding acceptable behavior in the USI community setting. Written notice will not include specific details of the incident(s), circumstances surrounding the violation(s), or the specific disposition of the case. Parents/guardians interested in specific information are encouraged to discuss the case with their student. If questions remain, parents/ guardians are encouraged to contact the notifying office.

Direct Contact

When there is reason to believe that a student’s health and wellbeing are in jeopardy or that they have placed other members of the University community at risk, the dean of students or his/her designee may contact the parents/ guardians directly.

Consideration

An integral part of the conduct adjudication process will be the discussion concerning notification of the parents/ guardians. Consideration will be given to situations where notification may be detrimental to the student or family

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HEALTH RISKS OF ALCOHOL / EFFECT OF ALCOHOL INTOXICATION

An over consumption of alcohol can have very serious and dangerous effects. We encourage students who are of drinking age to be responsible when drinking. All students regardless of age should become familiar with the effects that drinking can cause.

Below, we have outlined several alcohol related problems and causes. We will discuss the general, short-term and long-term effects alcohol can have on your life.

General Effect

Alcohol is a depressant drug that reduces activity in the central nervous system. The alcohol intoxicated person exhibits loose muscle tone, loss of fine motor coordination, and often has a staggering drunken gait. The eyes may appear somewhat glossy, and pupils may be slow to respond to stimulus. At high doses, pupils may become constricted. At high doses, alcohol can decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure and respiration rate, and result in decreased reflex responses and slower reaction time.

Short-Term Intoxication

Consumption of more than two average sized servings of alcohol within several hours will produce measurable impairment of motor coordination and reasoning. The more alcohol consumed the greater the impairment. Although many states (including Indiana) set a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% by volume as a presumptive level of intoxication for certain purposes, intoxication and impairment begin at a much lower level. It is safest to avoid all alcohol if operating a vehicle or engaging in risky recreational activities. Intoxication at levels of 0.20% BAC and above presents risks of loss of consciousness, nausea and vomiting, injuries, and even overdose and death.

Although the average lethal dose is about 0.40%, overdose deaths occur in some situations with BACs near 0.20%.

Long-Term Heavy Drinking

Drinking to the point of intoxication one or two times per week or more frequently over a period of several years can cause serious health consequences, including: liver disease and cirrhosis, circulatory problems and cardiomyopathy, nervous system damage and polyneuropathy, alcohol dependence, and psychosis. Alcohol abuse can increase the risks of certain types of cancers, including cancer of the tongue, mouth, pharynx, esophagus, larynx, and liver. The cancer-producing effects of alcohol abuse are increased by use of tobacco.

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HEALTH RISKS OF OTHER DRUGS

Aside from alcohol, there are several drugs that can also cause severe damage to your body. We ask that you read and become familiar with these drugs so that you can make an informed decision. Again, the University of Southern Indiana does not tolerate drug use of any kind. 

Health Risks of Commonly Abused Substances

Adopted from Eastern Illinois University (http://www.eiu.edu/cats/ryan/newsitenine/about/drug.php)

 

Substance

Nicknames/Slang Terms

Short Term

Effects

Long Term Effects

Amphetamines

uppers, speed, meth, crack, crystal, ice, pep pills

Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, dry mouth, loss of appetite, restlessness, irritability, anxiety

Delusions, hallucinations, heart problems, hypertension, irritability, insomnia, toxic psychosis, physical dependence

Barbiturates and Tranquilizers

barbs, bluebirds, blues, yellow jackets, red devils, roofies, rohypnol, ruffies, tranqs, mickey, flying v's

Slurred speech, muscle relaxation, dizziness, decreased motor control

Severe withdrawal symptoms, possible convulsions, toxic psychosis, depression, physical dependence

Cocaine

coke, cracks, snow, powder, blow, rock

Loss of appetite

increased blood pressure and heart rate, contracted blood vessels, nausea,

hyper-stimulation anxiety, paranoia, increased hostility

Increased rate of breathing, muscle spasms and convulsions.

dilated pupils

disturbed sleep,

Depression, weight loss, high blood pressure, seizure, heart attack, stroke, hypertension, hallucinations, psychosis, chronic cough, nasal passage injury, kidney, liver and lung damage

Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate

GHB, liquid B, liquid X, liquid ecstasy, G, georgia homeboy, grievous bodily harm

Euphoria, decreased inhibitions, drowsiness, sleep,  decreased body temperature, decreased heart rate, decreased blood pressure

Memory loss, depression, severe withdrawal symptoms, physical dependence, psychological dependence

Heroin

H, junk, smack, horse, skag

Euphoria, flushing of the skin, dry mouth, “heavy” arms and legs, slowed breathing, muscular weakness

Constipation, loss of appetite, lethargy, weakening of the immune system,

respiratory (breathing) illnesses,

muscular weakness, partial paralysis, coma, physical dependence, psychological dependence

Ketamine

K, super K, special K

Dream-like states, hallucinations, impaired attention and memory, delirium, impaired motor function, high blood pressure, depression

Urinary tract and bladder problems, abdominal pain, major convulsions, muscle rigidity , increased confusion, increased depression, physical dependence, psychological dependence

LSD

acid, stamps, dots, blotter, A-bombs

Dilated pupils, change in body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate, sweating, chills, loss of appetite, decreased sleep, tremors, changes in visual acuity, mood changes

May intensify existing psychosis, panic reactions, can interfere with psychological adjustment and social functioning, insomnia, physical dependence, psychological dependence

MDMA

ecstasy, XTC, adam, X, rolls, pills

Impaired judgment, confusion, confusion, blurred vision,  teeth clenching, depression,

anxiety, paranoia, sleep problems, muscle tension

 

Same as LSD, sleeplessness, nausea, confusion, increased blood pressure, sweating , depression, anxiety, memory loss

 kidney failure, cardiovascular problems, convulsions

death, physical dependence, psychological dependence

Marijuana/Cannabis

pot, grass, dope, weed, joint, bud, reefer, doobie, roach

Sensory distortion, poor coordination of movement

slowed reaction time,

panic, anxiety

 

Bronchitis, conjunctivas, lethargy, shortened attention span, suppressed immune system, personality changes, cancer, psychological dependence, physical dependence possible for some

Mescaline

peyote cactus

Nausea, vomiting, anxiety, delirium, hallucinations, increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature,

Lasting physical and mental trauma, intensified existing psychosis, psychological dependence

Morphine/Opiates

M, morf, duramorph, Miss Emma, monkey, roxanol, white stuff

Euphoria, increased  body temperature, dry mouth, “heavy” feeling in arms and legs

Constipation, loss of appetite

collapsed veins, heart infections, liver disease, depressed respiration, pneumonia  and other pulmonary complications, physical dependence, psychological dependence

PCP

crystal, tea, angel dust, embalming fluid, killer weed, rocket fuel, supergrass, wack, ozone

Shallow breathing, flushing, profuse sweating, numbness in arms and legs, decreased muscular coordination, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, delusions, paranoia, disordered thinking

Memory loss, difficulties with speech and thinking, depression, weight loss, psychotic behavior, violent acts, psychosis, physical dependence, psychological dependence

Psilocybin

mushrooms, magic mushrooms, shrooms, caps,  psilocybin & psilocyn

Nausea, distorted perceptions, nervousness, paranoia,

Confusion, memory loss, shortened attention span, flashbacks may intensify existing psychosis,

Steroids

roids, juice

Increased lean muscle mass, increased strength, acne, oily skin, excess hair growth, high blood pressure

Cholesterol imbalance, anger management problems, masculinization or women, breast enlargement in men, premature fusion of long bones preventing attainment of normal height, atrophy of reproductive organs, impotence, reduced fertility, stroke, hypertension, congestive heart failure, liver damage, psychological dependence

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RESOURCES  

We encourage anyone having difficulties with alcohol or other drugs seek help from the campus and community resources listed below.

USI Campus Resources

Counseling and Psychological Services

Orr Center, room 1051

812-464-1867

The Counseling Center staff provide short-term individual counseling and intervention to students who are having difficulties or concerns with alcohol- or other substance-related issues. If the Counseling Center is unable to provide the type of service you need or request, we will refer you to an appropriate community agency and assist you in obtaining services there.

University Health Center

Health Professions Center, room 0091

812-465-1250

The Health Center is a full-service clinic offering medical care and health information to students.

USI Public Safety

812-492-7777 (emergencies) or 812-464-1845 (non-emergencies)

If you experience or witness an emergency on campus, including alcohol and drug emergencies (blackouts, overdoses, etc.), immediately contact Public Safety. If off campus, dial 911.

Community Resources in the Evansville Area

Southwestern Behavioral Health

812-423-7791

Deaconess Cross Pointe

812-476-7200

Counseling for Change

812-491-2615

ADAPT Counseling

812-421-9900

New Visions Counseling

812-422-6812

Southwestern Indiana Alcoholics Anonymous

812-434-4952

Across The Rivers Area of Narcotics Anonymous

877-642-5831

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