Campus park is hot spot for drugs

Recent marijuana related activities at San Diego City College have caused some concern among students and staff according to City College officials.

The alleged marijuana consumption has been taking place in the park located in front of the Learning Resource Center with students and non-students taking part in the presumed activities.

“The park has always been a popular spot for this kind of activity because it allows the people doing it the chance to see if the police are coming, as there is no real good way to sneak up on anyone there,” Campus Police Sergeant Lou Zizzo said.

“We have been contacted by LRC staff regarding the activity in the park and our answer to them is always the same.we can only do what we can with what we have,” added Zizzo.

Two information desk librarians made no comment regarding the subject and seemed unaware of any of the proceedings.

Dean of Information and Learning Technology Gerald Ramsey declined our offer to an interview when asked about the reported drug use.

Professor Erin Engstrom, who teaches at the bottom level of the LRC, said she had heard LRC staff members talking about certain activities in front of the LRC. She said she has not seen anyone doing drugs there but she wouldn’t be surprised because minimal security.

“There has been some concern with the lack of security in afternoon and late night classes,” said Engstrom.

When City College students were asked about the marijuana use at the park, responses varied but plenty of students seemed aware of the situation but did not seemed bothered.

“Marijuana is not really a problem. It’s not a drug, it’s a plant,” said City College student Michael Carrozo.
“People usually ask if anybody minds, and they are usually minding their own business,” added Carrozo referring to individuals who frequent the park.

Although City College officials have made arrests and cited people, it has been difficult to put an end to these activities but guarantee that they are doing their best with what they have at hand.

Since the park is one of the most easily accessible areas and most frequented on campus, as well as being at walking distance from the trolley station, individuals can easily flea the scene if an officer is in site.

“We do patrol the park daily, but again, we do have other places we have to patrol,” said Zizzo.

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Campus park is hot spot for drugs