Expect Increased DWI, BWI Patrols in Nassau County This Labor Day Weekend

Expect to see an increased amount of authorities on patrol looking for intoxicated drivers and boaters this Labor Day weekend, Nassau County officials announced Wednesday.

Last year, 47 people were arrested for DWI in Nassau County during Labor Day weekend. So far this year, there have been 1,303 DWI arrests in Nassau County, with 13 fatalities caused by drunken drivers, officials say.

“While our officers are out every day and night locking up drunk drivers, we know that holiday weekends such as Labor Day are the most dangerous,” County Executive Ed Mangano said in a press release. “This weekend, there will be extra police officers targeting drunk drivers and boaters in order to prevent senseless alcohol-related accidents and deaths. Please think before you drink.”

The NCPD’s Highway Patrol Bureau will coordinate and plan which areas will be targeted through this extensive STOP-DWI enforcement initiative for the holiday weekend.

Labor Day Weekend 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.

“Whether you are driving a boat or a car you need to be sober and drive like people’s lives depend on it, because they do,” District Attorney Madeline Singas said. “If you risk lives by driving any kind of vehicle while you are drunk or drugged you will be arrested and prosecuted. It is everyone's job to keep our families safe on the roads and in the water. Please do your part.”

This enforcement is being funded by a grant from the New York State STOP DWI Foundation with money from the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. This funding allows local police departments to effectively crack down on drunk driving.

According to acting NCPD commissioner Thomas Krumpter, this campaign looks to to identify and apprehend alcohol impaired drivers while making both the roadways and waterways safe for everyone. “If you do not want to wind up in the back of one of our patrol cars and spending the weekend in a jail cell, be responsible if you plan to drink,” he said.

Image via County Executive's Office