The Manitowoc Police Department is once again participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” grant campaign.
Deputy Chief Jason Freiboth says the campaign begins today.
“What this means is we will be assigning officers to do extra traffic enforcement with the emphasis on looking for and deterring drunk driving or operating while intoxicated,” Frieboth explained.
Drunk driving is a major problem with over 6,000 alcohol related crashes resulting in 140 deaths in Wisconsin last year.
Frieboth says the MPD wants to “continue to do extra enforcement in that area. Just encourage people to plan ahead and take advantage of all the different opportunities to get home safely,” which include picking a designated driver or if you choose to drink do so at home and stay there.
This is an unfunded campaign, meaning the cost to participate including paying overtime comes out of the Department’s pocket, however by participating, the MPD becomes eligible for a drawing to get new equipment to help enforce and prevent OWI.
Officers will also be looking out for other violations including speeding and not wearing seatbelts.
“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” runs through Labor Day (September 7th).
