West Hartford Police Issue Caution to Parents about Hosting Parties

Both and will be hosting all-night "safe grad" substance free parties for the class of 2012 following Wednesday's graduation ceremonies, but that won't stop teenagers and their friends from attending other parties over the summer.

, anticipating the season of graduation parties, issued a press release Tuesday, cautioning parents about hosting a party where alcohol and/or drugs are present.

According to police, a homeowner can be held accountable for alcohol and drug use at their residence if that is determined by an investigation.

Police issued an "Unusual Incident Summary" as an example. According to West Hartford police, on May 20, 2012, officers responded to 294 Ridgewood Rd. on the report of a person who was unconscious. There they found an 18-year-old female unconscious after she had taken the drug ecstasy, which is also known by the street name "Mollie," police said.

The report stated that the teenager was found to be seriously ill from taking the drug, which police say she had taken before coming to the house. She was treated and taken to a hospital.

The teenager was found to be a guest at the residence where there was a party involving a group of teenagers, police said. At the residence, officers found evidence of alcohol and marijuana use.

Police said that the homeowner of the residence, Donald Gorczynski, was present during the party. As a result of the investigation, Gorczynski was charged with permitting a minor to possess alcoholic beverages, and was given an infraction.

Police report that the girl recovered, but cite this case as an example.

"We encourage parents to talk to their teenagers about the hazards of using alcohol and/or drugs and to encourage positive ways of having a safe and memorable graduation," police said in the release.