Full Notification

Turlock, California – If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, remember to do so responsibly by having a plan to get home safely.

This St. Patrick’s Day, Wednesday, March 17, 2021, the Turlock Police Department will have officers on patrol from 8:00 pm to 2:00 am looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Turlock Police Lieutenant Russell Holeman said, “If drinking is part of your plans, plan on designating a sober driver and find a safe way home. Don’t make poor choices and allow yourself to mix alcohol or drugs with driving.”

On St. Patrick’s Day in 2019, in California, seven people were killed, and 116 others were injured in crashes caused by driving under the influence.

Not only does driving under the influence put yourself and others on the road at risk, but it also hurts financially; attorneys’ fees, fines, court costs, insurance rate hikes and car repairs can reach $15,000 or more in California.

“It’s simple; don’t drink and drive. Stay at home or find a sober driver to take you home,” said Lieutenant Holeman.

California’s public health guidance advises to limit mixing with people you don’t live with as much as possible to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Although many St.

Patrick’s Day celebrations will be held virtually this year, it’s important to designate a sober driver or stay at home for the night.
If you ever see a suspected drunk driver on the road, call 911.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

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This information is being released by Turlock Police Department Sergeant David Hall.

Any media requests should contact:
Sergeant Michael Parmley
Office of Professional Standards
Turlock Police Department
Office phone - (209) 664-7345
Email – [email protected]