New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced yesterday that state and local law enforcement agencies across the state will be stepping up patrols and targeting impaired throughout the remainder of the week for St. Patrick’s Day. The enforcement campaign began yesterday and will continue through this Sunday.
This safety initiative is designed to reduce alcohol and drug-related traffic crashes and save lives. It is sponsored by STOP-DWI with funding from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC).
“We all love celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with family and friends, so make sure you’re celebrating safely this year,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage all New Yorkers to plan for a safe ride home, so you can enjoy your celebration without endangering yourself and others.”
During last year’s campaign, law enforcement throughout the state issued 47,349 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, including 1,403 arrests for DWI. Among those tickets issued were 10,409 for speeding and 610 for distracted driving.
New York State Police Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said, “There is nothing wrong with celebrating as long as you do so responsibly. If you are drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. Plan ahead and make arrangements for a safe ride home.”
STOP-DWI stands for “Special Traffic Options Program for Driving While Intoxicated.” The STOP-DWI program is a major component of New York’s efforts to combat impaired driving. The program’s efforts are funded from fines paid by convicted impaired drivers. Importantly, the program’s coordinators are comprised of diverse professional backgrounds, including law enforcement and non-law enforcement.
