Crime & Safety

DUI Enforcement Continues Through New Year In Berkeley

If you plan to celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome 2025, plan ahead to get a sober ride home.

BERKELEY, CA — As you finalize your New Year's Eve plans, remember to include a sober way home.

The Berkeley Police Department is continuing its Drive Sober campaign.

"Berkeley Police Department wants to remind the public of the dangers of driving impaired and to celebrate the holiday season responsibly by not driving under the influence," the department said earlier this month.

Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Additional officers are on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The high-visibility enforcement effort is part of a national campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, with the goal of stopping suspected impaired drivers who put others at risk.

"During the holiday season, we see families and loved ones coming together to celebrate, and our goal is to make sure everyone gets home safely," said Traffic Officer Dave Harston. "Impaired driving isn’t just dangerous; it’s illegal. Let’s make this a joyful and safe holiday season for everyone on the road. We urge people to act responsibly and plan a sober ride home."

Find out what's happening in Berkeleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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