Harris County Sheriff’s Office Launches Multi-Agency Partnership for DWI Initiative Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend | Community

In a collective effort to protect the roadways during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Harris County Prosecutor’s Office, Harris County troopers, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the American Automobile Association (AAA). and Mothers Against Drunk Driving are joining forces to fight drunk driving throughout Harris County.

For years, Harris County has been ranked among the best in the nation for its high volume of fatal DWI crash rates. This multi-agency initiative aims to prevent alcohol and drug-related road incidents, saving lives. Dozens of deputies and state troopers will be out in force, ready to arrest drivers who choose to drive under the influence.

“Drunk driving is a 100% preventable crime with irreversible consequences,” said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “We are committed to reducing impaired driving tragedies through education and increased law enforcement efforts in our community. »

Memorial Day weekend is a time for families to come together and honor and remember fallen heroes. It also marks the unofficial start of summer, with an increase in travel and celebrations. Unfortunately, this is also a time when alcohol-related accidents and DWI incidents tend to increase.

“Impaired driving poses a serious threat to public safety, but it is one we can mitigate through collective action. Be sure to plan ahead and choose to never drive impaired. Together, we can save lives and prevent senseless loss during the Memorial Day holiday weekend,” said Sheriff Gonzalez.

Designate a sober driver, call a taxi or rideshare service, use public transportation, or call someone you trust to pick you up to avoid driving under the influence.

Drivers suspected of being impaired will be subject to field sobriety tests and blood draws without refusal. Prosecutors from the Harris County District Attorney’s Office will be on hand to file charges, and district judges will be ready to review and sign blood warrants for suspected drunk drivers. This initiative allows law enforcement to streamline investigations into suspected impaired drivers.