Hmm. A bit of research suggests an Erickson family does live at that address, and the reporter and college public safety officer both exist (you can even email them to check). I imagine one could find more info with a Lexis-Nexis account, or if one were willing to pay Intelius or similar.

As for the newspaper listing addresses - my local one does in its police blotter, so. It may be stupid, but it's not unknown.

Either way, I don't doubt it about the drugs. :)