Special patrols to crack down on drunk drivers

By Daily Illini Staff Report

Champaign Police will be conducting special patrols on St. Patrick’s Day to take measures against drunk drivers and unbuckled motorists as a part of its St. Patrick’s Day Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Crackdown.

According to a report released by Champaign Police, officers will be working overtime to catch drunk drivers and will be paying close attention to seat belt enforcement, especially at night when usage is the lowest.

Sgt. Geoff Coon said that the department has dedicated an additional 30 hours of overtime that officers can sign up for on a volunteer basis.

Police also remind people of the possible consequences of hosting a party on St. Patrick’s Day. The host of a party can be held responsible if someone in attendance is involved in a drunk driving accident. Police recommend that the host take keys away from anyone planning on driving drunk.

“Driving drunk is a deadly decision and it is against the law. We will show zero tolerance,” Coon said. “So remember, designate a sober driver before the party begins and always buckle up.”

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Fines for a DUI vary on the situation, and the minimum fine for not wearing a seatbelt is $120 in Champaign County.