Police to Crackdown on DWI, BWI on July 4 Weekend

The Suffolk County Police Department are once again stepping up patrols for the Fourth of July weekend. The department is also reminding residents of the dangers of using fireworks.

The SCPD will patrol for DWI and BWI offenders on Suffolk roads and waterways.

The enforcement effort will include officers from the Marine Bureau, Community Oriented Police Enforcement (COPE) Units, Aggressive Driving Task Force, the SAFE-T (Selective Alcohol Fatality Enforcement) Section, as well as standard patrols. It’ll also include checkpoints at various locations throughout the police district.

Suffolk Police Commissioner Richard Dormer addressed the effort to curtail drinking and driving.

“The message is clear – if you are going to drink, then don’t drive,” he said. “Our officers will be out in full force to take drunk drivers and boaters off the streets and waterways.”

Suffolk Police also reminded residents that possession of fireworks by unlicensed individuals is illegal in New York, and residents are asked to report the use of illegal fireworks by calling 631-852-COPS.

“The public must remember that while fireworks may offer entertainment, they’re best left to the professionals,” said police.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy added: “Illegal fireworks may not only seriously harm the person lighting them, but they also place everyone nearby in danger. We want everyone to have a safe holiday.”