Salinas Police Department increasing DUI patrols for holiday weekend

Law enforcement around the Central Coast are increasing DUI patrols in preparation for Saint Patrick’s Day. Extra enforcement in Salinas begins Friday.

The increased patrols are paid for through a grant from The California Office of Traffic Safety.
SPD Sergeant Robert Hampson says you should plan ahead before you head out the door for a little Irish celebration.

“There’s too many other options. You can take Uber, you can have a designated driver, taxi cabs. There is no reason to take the chance if there is even the slightest risk that you’re under the influence to get behind the wheel,” said SPD Sergeant Robert Hampson.

The CHP will also have extra officers out on the road for the holiday weekend. Last year they made 148 arrests for drivers under the influence.