By Kirstin MaguireThe Daily Northwestern

University Police will dispatch about 25 officers throughout campus on Dillo Day to enforce laws regarding underage drinking, open alcohol containers, false identification and illicit substances, said UP Assistant Chief Dan McAleer.

Security personnel will check students for alcoholic beverages when they arrive at the Lakefill on Saturday. UP officers will be on foot, in squad cars, on bicycles, in uniform and in plainclothes. McAleer said he hopes students will stay on the Lakefill instead of being loud in the residential areas around campus.

“We prefer that people come to the Lakefill and enjoy the music and be a good neighbor throughout the entire weekend,” McAleer said.

Students who engage in illegal behavior could face fines ranging from $75 to $1,000, along with a referral to the Office of Student Affairs, McAleer said.

“I hope the students act responsibly,” said Ald. Cheryl Wollin (1st). “Last year it went quite well, and I hope it will go well again.”

Last Dillo Day, UP issued citations for seven marijuana-related incidents and three for underage consumption of alcohol. Officers also reported two disorderly conduct offenses, one for obstruction of justice and one for personal injury. Seven arrests were made, according to the UP blotter.

“I like the tradition of having a day where people can come out on the Lakefill and enjoy the music, but I don’t enjoy some people’s idea that it’s a time that you overindulge in alcohol and illegal substances,” McAleer said.

UP officers want students to watch how much alcohol they consume, if they choose to drink. McAleer said students should eat and drink water throughout the day. While he said he hopes students will be responsible, McAleer also urges them to call police or paramedics if they find a friend in trouble.

“If you make good choices, you are going to have a good time this weekend,” McAleer said.

Reach Kirstin Maguire at [email protected].