Nassau Police to Increase Patrols For Fourth of July Weekend

Police will be cracking down on patrols for drunk drivers this Fourth of July weekend, as well as increasing their anti-terror patrols and monitoring social media following the Istanbul terrorist attacks.

During the holiday weekend, the Highway Patrol will once again conduct the STOP-DWI initiative that will target certain areas throughout the county to stop drunk drivers both on the roads and the waterways.

Last year, during the Fourth of July weekend, there were a total of 41 DWI arrests in Nassau County.

In 2015 altogether, there were 2,510 DWI arrests countywide.

According to the National Safety Council, it is predicted that 466 people may be killed and another 53,600 may be seriously injured in car crashes during the three-day holiday weekend, which is the highest predicted number of deaths the council has released for a holiday period since 2008.

“The Nassau County Police Department has a zero tolerance policy for those who drive under the influence putting those on the road at risk," Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter said. "This campaign is intended to identify and apprehend alcohol impaired drivers. Our aim will be to make the roadways safe for all drivers and our targets will be those who disregard the law.”

In order to avoid a DWI or an accident caused by drunk driving, both Nassau County Edward P. Mangano and Krumpter offer the following advice:

• If you plan to drink, choose a designated driver before going out.
• Take mass transit, a cab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
• Spend the night where the activity is being held.
• Always buckle up – it’s your best defense against a drunk driver.

Additionally, after the recent terrorist attacks in Istanbul, officials announced their plans for "Operation Independence Weekend."

Officers will be patrolling local communities and members of the Bureau of Special Operations and Criminal Intelligence Response Team will be patrolling local malls, areas of large gatherings and other critical areas during the holiday weekend.