St. Fratty’s partygoers will be charged with crimes if they violate law, SLO County DA says
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The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office is joining Cal Poly and the city in cracking down on St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Local St. Patrick’s Day partying, often referred to as “St. Fratty’s Day,” has become an event where Cal Poly students — and college-aged people from other areas — begin drinking before dawn. The party typically lasts through the mid-morning.
Last year’s event drew more than 6,000 people to a block party in the neighborhoods near campus, causing some who lived in nearby homes to play home defense while on-campus dorms were trashed to the point some students were evacuated.
This year, partygoers who commit crimes will not be offered misdemeanor diversion prior to criminal charges being filed, the DA’s office said in a news release.
Individuals alleged to commit a crime that stems from St. Fratty’s Day celebrations during the city’s mandated safety enhancement zone — which starts Friday — will have criminal charges filed against them and have to attend court.
Fines will also be doubled during the city’s safety enhancement zone.
The misdemeanor diversion program aims to reduce recidivism by providing low-level, non-repeating offender the opportunity for rehabilitative education before charges are ever filed.
Eligible offenders who successfully complete the program, pay the program fees and pay victim restitution do not have criminal charges filed against them.
The District Attorney’s Office “strongly encourages students, visitors, and residents to enjoy Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations responsibly, particularly on and around the Cal Poly campus,” the release said.
“Together, we can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a way that ensures the safety of both participants and property,” the release said.
This story was originally published March 11, 2025 at 6:26 PM.
