1,800 DUI Arrests Statewide Over Fall Enforcement Period: CDOT

DENVER, CO – Warning that a DUI is a mistake that can "haunt you for the rest of your life," the Colorado Department of Transportation announced Wednesday that a special Halloween Weekend DUI patrol had nabbed 349 drunk drivers, part of a campaign that has netted 1,800 impaired drivers throughout the state this fall.

"Unfortunately, 349 drivers selfishly chose to put everyone on the roads in danger during Halloween," said Darrell Lingk, director of CDOT's Office of Transportation Safety in a press release.

Throughout the state, 74 agencies reported results from the Halloween weekend enforcement period, with the Colorado Springs Police Department (39), Denver Police Department (23) and Loveland Police Department (14) recording the highest arrest totals. The Colorado State Patrol made 57 arrests statewide.

"With many alternative ride options available, there is never an excuse to ever get behind the wheel when impaired," said CSP Chief Col. Matthew Packard.

According to CDOT, during the "Fall Festivals" DUI enforcement period, from Sept. 14 - Oct. 22, officers arrested 1,801 impaired drivers, an average of more than 45 arrests per day. That's down from 1863 during the same time period last year, CDOT said. Colorado Springs PD made 187 arrests, while Denver PD arrest 157 impaired drivers. Aurora Police Department arrested 106 and the Colorado State Patrol reported 255 arrests.

The Heat Is On will return Nov. 16 for a 10-day Thanksgiving holiday DUI enforcement. Last year, 617 drivers were arrested for DUI during the same 10-day heightened patrol, CDOt said in a statement.

Tips for safe driving during the holidays:

• Colorado's Click It Or Ticket campaign is underway so buckle up, it's the best defense ifyou're in a crash.
• Drive sober – Plan your designated driver and take the keys away from friends or family that are drinking this weekend.
• Never drive distracted – Put down your phone and just drive; Avoid other distractions thatdiverts your full attention to the road.
• Report drunk drivers – Call 9-1-1.

"Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or other drugs significantly impairs a person's ability to drive," said Col. Matthew Packard, Chief of the CSP in a statement. "Consuming any amount of alcohol or other drugs can cause impairment. If you are ever unsure if you are safe to drive, always opt for a sober ride home — you could save lives."

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