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Drinkers beware: Police are watching the roads

This holiday weekend will see a heavier-than-normal law enforcement presence on lookout for drunken drivers.

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By Everdeen Mason, Staff Writer 1:06 AM Thursday, July 2, 2009

The Ohio State Highway Patrol plans to have 80 percent of its troopers on the road for the Independence Day holiday weekend in an effort to curb drunken driving, according to the patrol.

The Hamilton Post of the state patrol is focusing on areas that have a history of high traffic volumes.

“There’s your highly populated areas, those are always covered,” said Lt. Wayne Price of the Hamilton Post.

Starting Friday, July 3, Hamilton police also will be more aggressive in pursuing intoxicated drivers, according to a news release.

“We will be using all of our resources to ensure a safe holiday for our citizenry,” said Hamilton police Chief Neil R. Ferdelman.

In Middletown, the police are using a state grant to cover overtime patrol shifts in addition to the regular patrols, said Middletown police Maj. David Van Arsdale.

“Any holiday we try to step up enforcement,” Van Arsdale said.

The Butler County Sheriff’s Office is focusing on deterring crime.

“Fourth of July we try to send out extra officers, try to have high visibility to deter criminal behavior,” said Chief Deputy Anthony Dwyer.

To assist officers, Butler County officials are asking residents to be responsible.

“If you are going to partake (in drinking), designate a driver,” said Carl Phillips, county DUI task force coordinator. “If you see a reckless driver, call 911.”

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2192 or emason@coxohio.com.

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