It’s hard not to have a fun weekend living in this paradise we call Isla Vista. For example, last weekend my housemates and I hosted a five-course dinner party for 18 guests on Friday night and a prom-themed party on Saturday (you missed out if you weren’t there, really). Saturday night’s party turned out to be wilder than high school prom, and among the guests that flooded my house were a special breed of “guests” not dressed in tuxedos and prom dresses, but rather law enforcement uniforms. And no, these weren’t Halloween costumes — they were cops.

To be honest, I’ve always had a generally negative impression of and even worse experiences with the police. I even had N.W.A.’s hit song about the police on my iPod’s “Top 25 Most Played” playlist. My recent encounter with these people who claim to “protect and serve” was, to my surprise, a positive one. Instead of showing up uninvited and crashing my party, the police officers were invited over by myself and a good friend. No, I am not some goodie two-shoes and I don’t enjoy ruining parties, but my best friend was scarily unresponsive and sprawled out in the bathroom. Desperate times call for desperate measures. My best friend was simply too fucked up and clearly needed medical attention.

[media-credit id=20135 align=”alignleft” width=”126″][/media-credit]I’m sure even you would need to get your stomach pumped and be administered saline solution intravenously if you were on prescription pills, a couple shots deep, stoned and rolling on ecstasy. My best friend was being irresponsible. Assuming no risks are present while recreationally experimenting with hard drugs is irresponsible. Re-read that sentence and take a second to think about what defines a hard drug and the consequences (physical, mental, emotional, friendships, behavior, etc.) that may be associated with doing it.

The cops were extremely helpful in this situation. Dispatching the ambulance immediately, it was obvious the police came in with the intention of actually protecting and serving. Obviously, the presence of cops at a party kills the vibe faster than blowing a romantically lit candle out in front of your “slumber party buddy” and getting hot wax all over your face. However, as an incentive for being responsible, no tickets (drunk in public or noise violation) were issued to any of the guests. Smart move by the cops, because issuing tickets may possibly prevent those who seek medical attention from getting it (this is analogous to the UCSB residence hall policy which allows residents to report people who may have alcohol poisoning without getting “written-up” or in trouble). Don’t be scared of utilizing the resources police have at their discretion. Ultimately, they are here to help rather than intimidate and punish.

The very next day, my best friend called me over to talk, as she wasn’t feeling well. She was so appreciative and thankful that there was someone to care for her the night before. If the decision ever comes up between saving a party and saving your friend, I beg you to make the right decision. With that said, have a fun and safe Halloween!

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