CU to post undercover police in stands as part of new fan behavior policy

The University of Colorado athletics department is implementing new procedures to improve fan behavior at Folsom Field, including using undercover police officers.

CU announced the changes on Monday and said the new policy will be implemented on Saturday when the Buffaloes host No. 22-ranked Iowa State at Folsom Field (1:30 p.m., ESPN).

The changes come in the wake of the Buffs’ last home game, against BYU on Sept. 27. That night, fans repeatedly chanted “F— BYU!” and “F— the Mormons!” during the game, which BYU won, 24-21. BYU is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Three days after that game, the Big 12 Conference issued a public reprimand and announced a $50,000 fine for CU Athletics because of the fan behavior.

Going forward, CU has announced several changes, including having undercover police in various sections throughout the stadium to be ready for immediate removal of fans violating the policy.

CU said it will have an increase in security personnel inside and outside the stadium, including in the student section, and an increase in security response. CU is also installing new technology to “proactively monitor behavior throughout the stadium.”

In addition, CU is hoping to improve communication between fans and stadium security. Fans have been asked to text the “Folsom Field Text for Assistance Line” at 720-812-1769 to report issues.

Per a press release, CU said that violations of the CU Fan Code of Conduct will result in immediate removal and possible loss of ticket privileges for the remainder of the season.

In the release, CU said, “Disruptive behavior, including foul, abusive, obscene or discriminatory language or gestures, as well as throwing items will result in immediate removal from the stadium. This can include entire rows or even sections if the disruptive behavior persists.”

CU Athletic Director Rick George last week vowed that a new policy was being discussed, saying in a statement: “The behavior by those fans who chanted was appalling, is unacceptable, and is not indicative of the values we strive for at CU. We must do better and we will.”