Police plan extra patrols for New Years

A word of warning for those New Year’s Eve revelers: Have a plan to get home safely with a sober driver.

Those were the words from Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe as he announced plans for increased patrols as the holiday season culminates Monday evening.

“If they’re going out, I’d tell them to have a plan,” Bowe said. “And make sure the designated driver does not drink.”

Bowe and his officers also will have a plan, and that includes a full complement of officers on the streets.

“We’ll be out from about 4 p.m. until well after 2 a.m.,” he said.

Bowe’s cautionary words were echoed by Troy Police Chief Bob McLeod and Sgt. Duane Bowers of the Montana Highway Patrol.

“We’ll be out there with DUI enforcement,” McLeod said. “We’ll be watching to keep those off the road who should not be driving to keep them safe and to keep that family who is coming home from the movies safe, too.”

Bowers said most often the holidays are a time for the gathering of families, and that often involves a celebration, which can include alcohol consumption.

“If your celebration includes the use of alcoholic beverages, please remember, don’t drink and drive and always use a designated driver if you have consumed alcohol,” Bowers urged.

In 2011-2012, statistics show that alcohol-related vehicle crashes, including fatal crashes, continued to rise. Another grim statistic is, that once again, lack of seatbelt use was the major overall contributing factor in 80 percent of all vehicle related deaths on Montana’s roadways. 

“As usual, the Montana Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies will be out in force over the holiday season looking for and stopping intoxicated drivers before they have the chance to become or create another statistic,” Bowers said.

Fines for DUI go up to $1,000 up to 10 days in jail.