University Police arrested four Nicholls students from Long and Calecas halls for possession of marijuana in the early morning of Sept. 23.University Police were issued search warrants by the City of Thibodaux court Sept. 22 after receiving several tips involving the illegal usage of narcotics. Searches found small amounts of suspected marijuana, alcohol and drug paraphernalia in one room in Calecas Hall, seventh and eighth floors of Long Hall and in one student’s car.

University Police worked alone in this operation.
“We have zero tolerance for any illegal usage of narcotics on this University,” Craig Jaccuzzo, chief of University Police, said. “This is a drug free environment, and we will make every effort to keep it that way.

The students arrested were Robert Jackson, a general business sophomore from Grand Isle; Edward G. Jones, a business administration freshman from Gretna; Richard W. Richardson, a culinary arts junior from Mandeville; and David Lategano, a social studies education freshman from Destrehan; according to police reports.

Jackson was charged for possession of marijuana, possession of narcotics in a drug free zone, underage drinking, prohibited acts and disturbing the peace. Police found marijuana and alcohol in his room according to police reports.

Jones was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of narcotics in a drug free zone. A small amount of marijuana stems, leaves and seeds were found in his car according to police reports.

Richardson was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of narcotics in a drug free zone. Two small bags of marijuana and paraphernalia were found in his room according to police reports.

Lategano was charged with suspected use and possession of marijuana and possession of narcotics in a drug free zone. Police found a small amount of marijuana in an ashtray in his room according to police reports.

The University Police Department is continuing an investigation of any possible illegal narcotics activity on campus. Jaccuzzo urges students to report any illegal activity. Students, faculty and staff should work with the University Police Department to ensure safety and a drug free environment.

“The residence halls have a zero tolerance policy,” Oscar West, director of residential life, said. “That means that anybody with possession of drugs in the residence halls will at least be evicted.”

The students are no longer allowed in the residence facilities and now face criminal and University discipline charges. According to a letter sent to all residence hall students by the office of residential life, the students face possible disciplinary actions that include expulsion, suspension, loss of housing deposits and rent, loss of financial aid, community service and probationary status.