Cops to Boost DWI Patrols for New Year's

Nassau County Police will boost DWI patrols over the New Year’s holiday week, announced County Executive Ed Mangano.

“New Year’s Eve is typically one of the biggest party nights of the year,” said Mangano in a statement Tuesday. “We will be targeting drunk drivers and looking to prevent the kind of senseless alcohol-related accidents that, unfortunately, often occur during a holiday.”

• Sign up for your local Patch newsletter and breaking news alerts here

Police patrols will be increased across Nassau County with officers paying close attention to notorious routes for drivers.

Nassau Police made 31 DWI arrests over the New Year’s holiday last year, Mangano said.

“Make responsible and smart decisions during your celebrations, and plan accordingly so everyone can return home safely to their loved ones. Be smart - a taxi is a much better choice than the backseat of a patrol car,” said Mangano. “Please ‘think before you drink’ this weekend.”

All Island Taxi will also be providing free rides home on New Year’s Eve. Call 516-326-9090 for a ride home.

“Drunk driving accidents are tragic any time of the year, but the risk goes up dramatically during a holiday like New Year’s Eve,” said DA Kathleen Rice. “Start off 2015 right by being extra-vigilant about drunk driving.”

Officials released the following safety tips:

• 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.

More on Patch:

• Police ID Two Killed in Hicksville Crash
• Nearby: Man Shot in Head, Killed in Freeport
• Legal Sea Foods in Huntington Station Closes
• DA: Man Charged in Bridgehampton Arson Also Set Patchogue Bar on Fire
• Fire Breaks Out in Southside Hospital Elevator Shaft
• ‘Midnight on Main St.’ New Year’s Eve Celebration in Patchogue
• Editor’s Pick: 5K New Year’s Eve ‘DASH’ and Party
• Family New Year Celebration Set for Long Beach
• 2 Confirmed Cases of MRSA at Rocky Point High School
• Chemical Found in Soil Around Utility Poles in East Hampton
• Report: PSEG Failed to Notify Residents of Insulating Fluid Leak
• Levittown Peer Buddies Take Prize at Tree Festival
• Cops: Two Stole from Huntington Station Pharmacy