Boston College has employed a roving party patrol to keep tabs on off-campus student house parties, with liaison Steve Montgomery tasked with warning revelers about keeping noise down, the Boston Globe reported Nov. 18.

Montgomery drives an official BC van around Brighton and Chestnut Hill, checking in on about 40 private homes known to be rented to BC students. He has a list of 18 properties known to be "problem houses" that are tagged for special attention.

Not only is Montgomery a known -- if not always welcome -- face for BC students living off campus, other residents also know he is the man to call if student parties get out of hand. Montgomery keeps track of house rentals and sales, introducing himself to students and parents in the fall and hosting orientation sessions about living off-campus. Part of his message: BC has zero tolerance for underage drinking and is determined to maintain peace and quiet for its neighbors.

Montgomery has the power to write up violators, and his reports can lead to suspension from school or other penalties. He also stays in constant contact with campus and city police about possible alcohol violations. "The BC students know they're going to be held accountable whether they're on campus or off campus," said Thomas J. Keady, BC's vice president of governmental and community affairs.