Arrests at UConn Spring Weekend

Storrs (WTNH) - State Police made more than a dozen arrests on the first night of UConn's Spring Weekend, including one person who struck an officer.

Nikita Guryakov, 19, of Hamden was arrested on charges of assault and interfering with a police officer after he struck one officer in the face and hit a second in the head, police said.

Spring Weekend is the traditional party time before final exams at the University of Connecticut. Each year state police team up with campus officers, local firefighters, and ambulance crew to make sure every safety angle is covered.

In years past there have been riots, fires, and lots of arrests. On the first night state police arrested 13 people on a varity of charges.

Among those arrested was UConn football player and co-captain Scott Lutrus, who faces charges of interfering with police.

Students who spoke with News Channel Eight had mixed ideas on what this weekend will look like overall.

"I think it always gets out of control. Every year, absolutely," Senior Lester Harris said.
When asked whether people can have fun and keep it under control, Harris replied "no."

"I think it's going to stay in control," UConn Mike Welch said. "There is a pretty good police presence here, the tents are set up, I think it will stay in control."

A number of DUI checkpoints have been set up in the area as part of the safety effort.