Public Safety Dept. Ramps Up DWI Enforcement in Preparation for Halloween Weekend

In preparation for the Halloween weekend, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Office of Traffic Safety is coordinating a massive effort to reduce alcohol-related traffic stops, injuries and death. 

According to DPS statistics, drunk driving has resulted in seven deaths and 24 serious injuries during Halloween party weekends in the last five years.

Minnesota State Patrol troopers, county deputies and municipal officers are increasing their DWI enforcement presence this weekend. During Halloween party weekends, 2007–2011, 2,342 motorists were arrested for DWI. 

“One costume you don’t want to be wearing for Halloween is a county jail suit,” says Jean Ryan, DPS Office of Traffic Safety impaired driving program coordinator. “Before you plan what you’re wearing, plan a sober way home to avoid the dangers and consequences of a DWI.”

This weekend also wraps up a statewide, increased Click It or Ticket seat belt campaign.

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Each year, around 30,000 motorists are arrested for DWI in Minnesota. Drunk driving crashes have resulted in 651 deaths during the past five years — 111 in 2011. In 2011, the average DWI offender was arrested with a 0.155 alcohol-concentration level.