Full Notification

MERIDIAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 17, 2021
 
CONTACT: Kelsey Johnston, Public Safety Information Officer, [email protected]
 

Meridian- The Meridian Police Department is joining in the statewide effort to remove DUI drivers from Idaho roadways this season by increasing patrols within the city. This effort comes at a time when many celebrations include alcohol which can impair driving and cause serious accidents. Meridian PD issued 376 citations for driving under the influence in 2020 and this enforcement comes as traffic fatalities across Idaho are at a 15-year high according to the Idaho Transportation Department Office of Highway Safety.

“Drunk driving impacts the whole community. We want to make sure that if you are going to drink, have a plan in place ahead of time for how you will get home” said Sergeant Justin Dance. “Don’t be the reason someone doesn’t make it home for the holidays”

Meridian Police Department DUI efforts will increase beginning Friday, December 17, and through New Year's Eve weekend. DUI education and enforcement is intended to keep families safe and whole every day, including through this holiday season.

Celebrate with a Plan
1. Talk with friends and family about the importance of driving sober and, as a passenger, never getting into a vehicle with a driver who may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
2. Plan your safe ride home before alcohol clouds your judgment.
3. Choose a non-drinking friend as a designated driver.
4. Arrange for a ride share service or taxi.
5. If you're hosting a party where alcohol will be served, serve non-alcoholic beverage options.
6. If someone you know is about to drink and drive, take the keys away and help with arrangements to get them a safe ride.
7. Always wear your seat belt - it's your best defense against impaired drivers.
8. If you see what could be an impaired driver on the road, call 911. Your actions could save a life.

Funding for extra DUI patrols is provided by a grant from the Idaho Transportation Department Office of Highway Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information about the 2021 Holiday Season Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. The Meridian Police Department’s mission is to provide the highest quality service in partnership with the community to preserve and protect life and property through education, prevention and enforcement.  The department has 133 police officers and 41 civilian staff dedicated to making Meridian a great place to live, work and raise a family.