Deputies Begin Holiday Crackdown On Drunken Driving In LA County

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on Friday ramped up patrols searching for impaired drivers as part of a national campaign to crack down on drunken driving during the holiday season.

The national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign began Friday and will continue through New Year's Day. The LASD, along with other law enforcement agencies, will have additional officers on patrol.

“We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so that they can celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones,” Sergeant Michael Lennig said. “Not only is driving impaired illegal, but it is also dangerous and never acceptable. We are asking everyone to do their part to keep themselves and everyone on the roads safe.”

In December 2023, 1,038 people were killed in the U.S. in alcohol-related crashes, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration citied by the LASD. Sheriff's officials urged people to celebrate the holidays responsibly and designate a sober driver, use public transit or call a taxi or ride-hailing vehicle when drinking.

Officials also noted that prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis and other drugs can also cause impaired driving, not just alcohol.

City News Service contributed to this report.