Forsyth Sheriff Beefing Up DUI Patrols

CUMMING, GA — The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office wants you to enjoy the holiday season. But if you're going to be imbibing some holiday cheer, they're warning you not to get behind the wheel.

The sheriff's office said in a Facebook post that it is increasing its number of DUI patrols, in an effort to keep residents on the roadways safe through the holidays.

"The safety of the people in Forsyth County is our #1 priority; therefore, if you drive drunk in FOCO we will catch you and you WILL go to jail," the post said. "There is no such thing as a DUI warning."

Last weekend, the sheriff's office says it made seven DUI arrests in the county. Drivers were recorded with blood-alcohol levels of .11 ,.14, .16 and one at .34 — more than four times Georgia's legal limit.

There are actually three legal blood-alcohol limits for drivers in Georgia. It's .o2 — roughly the equivalent of one beer or mixed drink — for drivers younger than 21, .08 for most drivers 21 and older and .04 for anyone driving a commercial vehicle, large truck or bus.

"We want you to have fun but remember to celebrate responsibly," the sheriff's office wrote. "It’s simple, if you drink, DO NOT drive – call a friend or family member, or employ a taxi, Uber, or Lyft."

In a quote attached to the post, Sheriff Ron Freeman reiterated the message.

"I don't want to see you in jail, lose your license or spend thousands of dollars in fines and fees, but that is exactly what will happen if we find you DUI," Freeman said.

Photo courtesy Forsyth County Sheriff's Office