I don't necessarily agree with the state's new laws concerning liquor violations and driving under the influence (DUI), but it clearly isn't some hidden conspiracy by the State College Police Department, as Kevin Coopey thinks ("Student: Have a cold one to protest PLCB," April 8). Handing out citations is not "big business," as many would like to believe.

The borough doesn't pocket all the fines collected by the police, and fines only account for a minimal portion of total revenue. For example, when a DUI fine is collected, half goes to the commonwealth's motor license fund, and the rest is used by the county to fund corrections and drug treatment programs. There is no "abuse of power" in cracking down on underage drinking. The state is simply trying to reduce underage drinking, and it's doing that through stiffer fines. Would you rather have a fine or spend some time in jail? I don't like these policies any more than you do, but making wild accusations against the police will accomplish nothing.