Skokie Police Up DUI Patrols For St. Patrick's Day 2025

SKOKIE, IL — As Skokie gears up for St. Patrick's Day festivities, police said they will be upping patrols on Monday for DUI enforcement.

Additional Skokie Police Department officers will be on patrol all day on March 17.

"With St. Patrick's Day falling on a Monday this year, we expect increased celebrations throughout the weekend prior," Russell said. "We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly. Please plan ahead for a sober ride home before you leave the house — your safety and the safety of others depends on it."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest times on roads nationwide. Over the 2022 St. Patrick's Day holiday period, 74 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the U.S.

Impaired driving doesn't just include alcohol, some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, other illegal drugs and marijuana can also land someone a DUI. Skokie officers will also be stepping up enforcement for seat belts, speeding, and distracted driving.

First-time DUI charges can cost a maximum of $2,500 in fines, and drivers could get their licenses suspended if convicted.