The initial Globe report on the UMass melee failed to mention the riot police that were deployed.
"UMass students assail police response to party; University wants scrutiny of all involved" by Peter Schworm | Globe Staff March 11, 2014
Students at the University of Massachusetts Amherst rallied in protest Tuesday against the police response to an unruly outdoor party last weekend, alleging that town officers used overly aggressive tactics to break up the large crowds.
Hey, you kids were warned.
The rally was held as university leaders said they would not tolerate drunken, irresponsible behavior and called for an in-depth look at the incident, including police conduct.
Referring to videos that show police clad in riot gear aggressively detaining partiers, in one case disabling a man with a blast of pepper spray to the face, UMass students denounced the Amherst department’s handling of the pre-St. Patrick’s Day celebration, which led to 55 arrests.
“The videos definitely show that students were treated like animals,” said Zac Broughton, president of the university’s student government association. “They wanted to send a message.”
And remember, this is liberal Democrat Massachusetts we are talking about here!
Amherst Police Chief Scott Livingstone said officers worked “diligently and professionally” to disperse unruly crowds at the Blarney Blowout that swelled to more than 4,000, and said they were pelted with bottles, full cans of beer, and snowballs. Town police responded to the disturbance because the party occurred off campus....
--more--"
Related: Dozens charged in bash at UMass
Former police commissioner to examine UMass party culture
UMass gives itself good grade on reaching goals
Also see: UMass and the biggest small man in the country
UMass rallies to beat URI in A-10 tourney
Kicking Around UMass
