Watch for extra patrols this weekend
Published 5:30 pm Saturday, March 15, 2014
The Albert Lea Police Department will have an increased focus on drunken driving this weekend because of the St. Patrick’s Day holiday on Monday.
People are encouraged to plan ahead for a sober ride to prevent alcohol-related crashes, according to a news release.
St. Patrick’s Day is historically a dangerous drinking-and-driving time, the release states. Since 2009, more than 1,450 people have been arrested for driving while intoxicated on St. Patrick’s Day in Minnesota, while on an average weekend in Minnesota, police arrest 250 motorists for DWI.
There were 375 DWI arrests across the state in 2013; 346 in 2012; 289 in 2011; 225 in 2010; and 218 in 2009, according to the release.
“Traditionally, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated not only on the actual holiday but the days leading up to it as well,” said Albert Lea Police Department Lt. Jeff Strom. “Unfortunately, this usually makes it a busy time for us because several people decide to get behind the wheel after hours of drinking. You can help us by planning ahead for a sober ride if you plan to celebrate.”
A DWI offense can result in a loss of a driver’s license for up to a year, thousands in costs and possible jail time.
The effort is part of the state’s Toward Zero Deaths initiative, which aims to create a safe driving culture.