At Oakland University, there is a difference between OU policy and law. This means there are policy violations the police cannot enforce.

Bike Share bikes found in off-campus locations

Law violation

Since taking Bike Share bikes is considered larceny, it is also a law violation. Capt. Mark Gordon of the OU Police Department explained that in order to prosecute someone for stealing a Bike Share bike, intent to permanently deprive the owner thereof must be proven.

That means if a student uses one of the bikes to ride to a nearby store and back, it is not a law violation.

Gordon also said the bikes have turned up in areas such as Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Hazel Park and Warren.

Having pets in dorms

Policy violation

It is up to the Department of University Housing to enforce rules on pets. According to Jim Zentmeyer, director of university housing, only fish in a 10-gallon or smaller tank are allowed in the dorm rooms. He said the presence of animals can cause issues for students with allergies. If pets are found, arrangements are made to have the animal removed from the dorm.

“A residence hall is a very tough area for a pet,” Zentmeyer said. “It’s very confining. Normally, a student would be leaving a pet alone for a period of time and it can very easily turn in to an abusive situation? For the pet as well.”

Drinking on campus

Potentially either a policy violation or law violation

OU’s policy states any alcohol consumption must take place behind closed doors of dorm rooms “where the occupant is 21 years or older.” If persons under the age of 21 consume alcohol, the violation becomes a legal matter. In instances of underage drinking, the offender is issued a minor in possession citation.

Zentmeyer explained what happens in the instance of finding students in violation of OU’s housing alcohol policy.

“Our resident assistants confront and document that situation, letting people know what that policy is,” he said. “If there is a need for OUPD to be involved, they will be contacted as well.”

Bringing outside food to OU organized events

Policy violation

The Student Organization Policies and Procedures Handbook states if an event or meeting takes place in the Oakland Center or Vandenberg Hall, food used for the event must be supplied by Chartwells. Since this is an OU policy and not a law, the police cannot enforce this rule.

The handbook also states organizations in violation of this policy “may face consequences from Chartwells, the Oakland Center, and/or the Center for Student Activities including, but not limited to, a loss of building privileges, funding privileges, account use and recognition.”

Meter violations

Law violation

“Because it’s an ordinance it’s now a legal matter …  it’s a law violation,” Gordon said. “So it falls under the jurisdiction of the police to enforce it.”

Gordon said a lot of students park in metered areas, which have a 45-minute limit, while attending class. When students come out two to four hours later, there is often a ticket waiting for them.