Lexington Police Stepping Up DUI Patrols

LEXINGTON, MA — Lexington police said they will step up patrols targeting drunk drivers through New Year’s.

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Lexington is one of 202 Massachusetts police agencies working with the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. Their extra patrols are funded by a grant.

Last year in Massachusetts, 133 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety.

A typical drunk-driving arrest results in about $10,000 in expenses related to bail, court fees, and other costs, officials said.

“The cost of cab fare is nothing compared to a $10,000 OUI, the inconvenience of spending the holidays behind bars, or the cost of someone’s life,” police said in a statement.

Lexington police Lt. James Barry added: “We can’t stand to see this tragic loss of life again and again. The hardest part of the job is making that house call and telling a family that their loved one is gone because someone chose to drink and drive. That’s why, leading up to the holidays, we will show zero tolerance for drunk drivers on the road.

“Please find a safe and sober ride home.”