Kingston, NY - Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces that police agencies across Ulster County will participate in a statewide special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving during the Thanksgiving holiday, November 21 through November 25, 2018.

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related vehicular fatalities, too many lives are still being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers.  Highly visible and publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving and help save lives. 

“Thanksgiving is a time of celebration when we gather with our family and friends to reflect on our blessings and enjoy being together with our loved ones,” said County Executive Mike Hein. “It is also one of the busiest travel times of the year and I urge those on the roadways this holiday to plan ahead and appoint a designated driver if needed or arrange for alternative transportation, such as taxis or ride sharing. Life is too precious to cut short and there are no excuses for driving while impaired.  Please celebrate this holiday responsibly and have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.”

In Ulster County during November 2017, 115 people were arrested for DWI alcohol, 31 for DWAI alcohol and 13 for DWAI drugs. Of the 115 people arrested for DWI alcohol, 40 were aged 30 and under.

The STOP-DWI Thanksgiving Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association with additional funding from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and implemented by the STOP-DWI Foundation.  Throughout the remainder of the year the Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign will also target the Holiday Season in December.