In 2012, more than 3,000 students flocked to Shell Beach, but 2013 saw a much smaller Cesar Chavez Day celebration.
In 2012, more than 3,000 students flocked to Shell Beach, but 2013 saw a much smaller Cesar Chavez Day celebration.

Mustang Daily Staff Report
news@mustangdaily.net

Seventeen college-aged individuals, at least one of whom was a Cal Poly student, were arrested this past Monday while celebrating Cesar Chavez Day at Shell Beach — 13 more than were arrested at last year’s celebrations, according to Pismo Beach Police Cmdr. Jake Miller.

The individuals were arrested in the areas surrounding the beach, beach access and parking lots from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and were charged with simple misdemeanors ranging from public intoxication to possession of alcohol, Miller said. Though the majority of the individuals were college-aged, Miller could only confirm one as a Cal Poly student. No names are being released at this time.

Shell Beach celebrations for Cesar Chavez Day have risen to infamy in recent years, as thousands of college-aged people flocked to the local beach. In 2012, more than 3,000 showed up to party, costing the city of Pismo Beach an estimated $8,000 in damages and cleanup fees.

This year, the celebrations were much less rowdy, Miller said. A smaller crowd (approximately 500 to 1,000 individuals) coupled with rainy weather and an increased police presence helped to keep the party under control.

“We didn’t realize it was going to be an annual event so we were a little behind the eight-ball (last year),” Miller said. “This year, we planned ahead and had officers ready when people got there.”
The increase in arrests is largely because of the police department’s “zero-tolerance” policy regarding alcohol use, Miller said.
“This year, with zero-tolerance put in place, we were in a better position to secure everyone safely, which helped a lot,” Miller said.
Jessica Burger contributed to this staff report.

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