St. Patrick’s Day DUI emphasis begins tomorrow. Don’t try your luck

BOISE, Idaho — The Treasure Valley DUI Task Force will conduct high-visibility DUI enforcement throughout St. Patrick’s Day weekend to keep roads safe and prevent impaired driving. The emphasis begins tomorrow and continues through Sunday, when the majority of celebrations are scheduled.

During the most recent enforcement emphasis over Super Bowl weekend, the task force arrested 38 impaired drivers. One fatal DUI crash occurred during that period.

“With each operation, we hope to see the numbers go down, but unfortunately they aren’t,” Idaho State Police Sgt. Brandon Rowley said. “When you drive impaired, you are putting lives at risk. There is absolutely no excuse not to have a sober ride.”

While St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration, it is historically one of the most dangerous holidays on roadways due to impaired driving. Impaired driving is not limited to alcohol. During the last DUI operation, two drivers were arrested for drug-related DUIs. Drug Recognition Experts from multiple agencies are assigned to the task force and respond when drivers show signs of drug impairment.

The Treasure Valley DUI Task Force reminds drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service or stay the night. Never drive impaired.

If you suspect an impaired driver, call 911 or *ISP (*477).

*To attend the task force briefing Thursday night or schedule a ride-along with the task force, contact PIO Sophia Miraglio at 208-989-0837.

Posted in District 3 - Western Idaho