1/19/2007
Law enforcement agencies report fewer holiday DUI arrests
BOISE - Law enforcement agencies throughout Idaho stepped up patrols to keep drunk drivers off the road this past holiday season and their efforts appear to have been successful, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
"While a few agencies reported an increase in DUI arrests, most agencies reported fewer DUI arrests compared to December 2005," said Kevin Bechen with ITD's Office of Highway Operations and Safety.
Bechen attributed the decline in DUI arrests to increased patrols and a strong media message that law enforcement was going to be out in force to arrest drunk drivers.
He added that there seemed to be an increase in sober designated drivers as well as more taxi and limousine rides being offered, many at reduced rates for the holiday period.
Statewide, 29 agencies participated in the overtime mobilization from Dec. 15 through New Year's Day. The overtime patrols were funded through a federal grant administered by ITD.
More than 130 law enforcement officers put in 2,200 hours and made 1,800 vehicle stops. In addition to 94 DUI arrests, officers apprehended 23 fugitives, made 20 felony arrests and 39 drug arrests. A number of citations also were issued during the 18-day period.
- 50 safety belt citations
- 4 child safety citations
- 59 suspended license citations
- 137 uninsured motorist citations
- 202 hazardous driving citations
- 3 reckless driving citations
- 6 under age alcohol citations