RNC Warns Graduating Students About Risks of Senior Games and Parties

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is warning graduating high school students about the potential legal and safety consequences associated with senior scavenger hunts, field parties and other graduation-related activities.

Police said some traditional graduation celebrations have evolved into events that encourage increasingly risky behaviour, with participants sometimes earning points for dangerous or illegal acts.

The RNC said activities that may be viewed as harmless fun can quickly cross into criminal territory. Police noted that theft, vandalism, public nudity, and the recording or sharing of sexual acts are criminal offences. Encouraging or directing others to commit such acts can also result in criminal charges.

Among the reminders issued by police were warnings not to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, to obey traffic laws, avoid distracted driving, stay off private property without permission, and exercise caution around hazardous locations such as cliffs, waterways, abandoned buildings and busy roads.

Students were also encouraged to look out for one another and to leave situations that feel unsafe. Police said concerns should be reported to a parent, guardian, teacher or police officer.

The RNC is also encouraging parents and caregivers to discuss graduation activities with their teens, know where they are going, establish regular check-in times and create a code word that can be used if a young person needs help.