Packed from wall to wall with partiers, the courtyard of Jefferson at Star
Ranch complex five was more than "hopping." Music blared from one of the apartments
as people milled about, shoulder to shoulder. Most had beers in hand. Everybody
seemed to be having a good time.
But soon, the music was no longer drowning out loud chatter amongst partiers.
Shouts of "cops" and "five-oh" became distinct. Some ran from the complex, others
sauntered away slowly. But within minutes, police cars and motorcycles had surrounded the area.
Officers from both the Tucson Police Department and the University of Arizona Police Department
contributed to the bust.
People were ordered to sit down. Most had dumped the beers they were holding,
although some continued drinking. Those sitting were quickly surrounded by yellow
police emergency tape. The crime scene was set. Only those who were over 21 years
old were allowed to leave.
In all, 125 people were arrested on minor in possession charges. Of those arrested,
57 were taken to jail in handcuffs to be booked and arraigned. Their
transportation was two 50-passenger prison busses.
