DWI Patrols to Increase for 'Black Wednesday'

Nassau County Police will swarm the area on Wednesday for one of the biggest drinking nights of the year.

On the night before Thanksgiving, known as “Black Wednesday,” NCPD will increase patrols across the county as residents head to parties.

“The night before Thanksgiving is typically one of the biggest bar nights of the year especially for our young people,” said County Executive Ed Mangano. “There will be additional police patrols throughout the County and chances are if you drive drunk at any point this weekend, you will be arrested.”

The county will add 500 hours of police patrols on Wednesday, officials said.

“Police patrols will demonstrate zero tolerance for individuals who are driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol,” Mangano said. “Our aim will be to make the roadways safe for holiday drivers and our targets will be those who disregard the law.”

There were 64 DWI arrests in Nassau County over the Thanksgiving holiday week in 2013 and 63 in 2012, officials said.

The county released the following reminders:

• 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 is your best defense against a drunk driver.