Oneida County Joins Statewide STOP-DWI St.

Oneida County Joins Statewide STOP-DWI St. Patrick’s Day Enforcement CampaignEffort Aims to Reduce Impaired Driving County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. announced today that the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, and local police agencies will participate in a statewide enforcement initiative aimed at combating impaired driving for the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period.

“St. Patrick’s Day is a time for our community to come together and celebrate, but it’s also a time when we must remain especially mindful of the safety of others on our roadways,” Picente said. “Through this enforcement campaign and the continued work of our STOP-DWI program and law enforcement partners, we are reminding everyone that impaired driving is completely preventable. If you plan to celebrate, make the responsible choice to plan ahead for a sober ride home and help keep Oneida County safe.”

The STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign will take place during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period, with law enforcement agencies increasing patrols and enforcement efforts to deter impaired driving due to alcohol and drugs. These campaigns are coordinated across New York State during holidays and major events that historically see increases in impaired driving incidents.

“While St. Patrick’s Day may bring a little luck, safety on our roadways comes from responsibility and good choices,” said Oneida county Sheriff Robert Maciol. “If you plan to celebrate, please arrange a sober ride home. Deputies and troopers, along with city and local police will be out enforcing impaired driving laws to help keep our communities safe.”

As St. Patrick’s Day celebrations take place across the community, including the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the City of Utica on March 14, the Oneida County STOP-DWI Program reminds residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly. Those planning to attend the parade or gather with friends and family are encouraged to plan ahead for a sober ride home and help keep Oneida County’s roads safe for everyone.

“St. Patrick’s Day should be an enjoyable occasion for everyone in our community, and that starts with making responsible decisions,” said Daniel DeLuke, Oneida County STOP-DWI Coordinator. “If you plan to celebrate, take a few minutes beforehand to figure out how you’ll get home safely. A designated driver, rideshare, taxi or another safe option can make all the difference and help ensure the night ends safely for you and everyone else on the road.”

For more information about STOP-DWI efforts in Oneida County, please visit https://oneidacountyny.gov/departments/stop-dwi/.