A parent may be suspicious that their child has been drinking alcohol. By calling (605) 677-7100, a project member will arrive at the requested location and provide assistance to the parent. An easy to use Prelimenary Breath Test (PBT) will be provided for the parent to use. The project member does not have to be present, nor does the parent have to disclose the results of the test. The project member's goal is to support the parent. No arrest will be made; the parent has control of the outcome.
Community Initiated Referral-
Sometimes a neighbor may be suspicious that an underage drinking party is taking place next door. By making a referral, the neighbor can relieve themselves of having to make a confrontation. P.R.E. will research for past events at the suspected location, then make contact with the home owner with an anonymous concern. A referral from a community member can help someone avoid the liability that may come from an underage drinking party taking place at their house.
1) the child being referred was involved in other criminal activity, e.g. vandalism, assault, theft, or any crime against persons
2) the child is on probation
3) the child or house is currently under investigation by local law
enforcement for illegal activity
4) the child is a habitual offender (this is at the discretion of the project
members)
5) there is a liability to the safety and well being of others, e.g. a car
accident
These are a few situations that might occur. The P.R.E. member taking the referral has the discretion to refuse the referral.
If I call to request assistance, and my kid has been drinking, are you going to arrest him/her? P.R.E. respects the parents request for support, therefore gives the parent the control of the situation. No arrest will be made, unless the child has been involved in other criminal activity, e.g. assaults, burglary, vandalism. In the case where other criminal activity is involved, P.R.E. will not respond to the referral.
Will my kid miss extra-curricular activities from school if I request assistance? No. School Administration has said that the program will remain confidential.
What if I request assistance, then change my mind? P.R.E. will stop the referral when the initial referring person no longer wants the program to continue.
What should I do if my next door neighbor's kid is throwing a party? Underage drinking parties possess a potential for liability regarding the safety of all that attend. Local law enforcement should be called. You can remain anonymous.
How do I contact Deputy Schnack or Captain Passick? Referrals can be made by called the Vermillion Police Department at 605 677-7070, or the Clay County Sheriff's Office at 605 677-7100. Advise the dispatcher that you are inquiring about Project: Re-Enforcement and wish to speak to Deputy Schnack or Captain Passick.