Recently at my college, the housing department rehearsed a fire drill as they do from time to time throughout the dorms. However, this time, the housing staff went from room to room, checking for extension cords (which are against housing policy), alcohol, and other prohibited items. Perhaps this is legal, I'm not a lawyer, and it is their property, I guess.
The thing that seemed wrong, though, was that upon finding any of these items, they were taken, with no note, verbal explanation, or anything.
Isn't there a law somewhere that protects me from my college taking my stuff? Even if it is against policy, isn't this taking it too far? I'm not looking to press charges, or really make any legal action whatsoever. However, having some link to a law or ordinance that protects my rights would be helpful.
Or is the college at no fault whatsoever? Thanks to anyone who can offer help.
2007-10-03 10:53:20 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
It is their property and when you moved in you agree to live by their rules of the property. Its just the same as living in your parents home. They make the rules, you live by them or move out.
Its just the way it is.
2007-10-03 11:09:29 · answer #1 · answered by Dog Lover 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Of course it's legal; and in most states and localities, it's required. Usually handicapped parking spaces are mandated by law, and the number and percentage are highly regulated based on the total number of parking spaces and, in the case of a dorm, possibly the total number of dorm rooms. Just because right now there's only one person doesn't mean that in 3 years (when you're gone) or 5 years, or 10 years, there won't be more. Considering that the spots are going unused right now, there may be a way for the university to comply with the regulations and free up at least one or two more spots by the dorm. Perhaps they could make some of the "regular parking lot" spaces handicapped in exchange for turning one of the spaces by the dorm into a regular space (perhaps, even a 30 minute loading or unloading only space). It might be a reasonable compromise that falls within the law. I woudl also suggest talking to your dean of students or your student council (whatever it's called) to address the issue.
2016-05-20 01:39:52 · answer #2 · answered by francis 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depending on your school, you usually sign a contract when you enter school housing stating that you will not keep restricted items in your room. At some schools, this means weapons, animals, certain types of halogen lamps..the list goes on and on. Some schools don't allow alcohol in rooms either and some will, as long as you are over 21. Check with your housing guidelines.
It seems unfair that they were doing a fire drill when they took these things. Usually in dorms, they can conduct "sweeps" where they search rooms for contraband and then confiscate it. To take restricted items during a fire drill, when that wasn't necessarily the purpose, seems unreasonable but is not illegal. If you were instructed not to have it, then you shouldn't have had it. Incidentally, if it was a fire drill, they may have taken items that possibly could start fires, like certain types of lighters and incendiary devices as well as certain types of lamps and lights. It really sucks but I'm afraid it's not illegal.
2007-10-03 12:13:12 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
As a hall director, I can state that there is no law and each college's policy is unique. This is a time for you to check out the living standards and policy your school has for people living in the residence hall and make yourself aware.
I would voice your concerns to your building's Hall Director and they would be able to answer you better regarding your university's specific policy.
2007-10-03 10:57:46 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No in the housing contract or ordinance it should state they do not have to give notice, plus the consequences for owning illegal objects in a dorm is taken for good purposes, so the court would rule for there decision to confiscate itiems.
2007-10-03 11:23:47 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You signed a contract when you moved in, best go back and read what rights you signed away. Chances are, since the property belongs to the college, you agreed to random searches.
2007-10-03 11:06:47 · answer #6 · answered by Seattle_Slacker 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you moved in to the dorm you signed a contract with the school. Use your college education and read the contract.
2007-10-03 10:58:25 · answer #7 · answered by davidmi711 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They absolutely have the right to search at any time in your presence or without you knowing.
You must remember you live on their property.
This has been battled many times. The courts repeatedly side with schools in this matter.
2007-10-04 15:05:26 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Only in America do we protest when we get caught breaking the rules or the law and to look for excuses why it should be ok.
2007-10-03 11:00:32 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋