DPS NEWS

New Year, Same Message: Start Your New Year Right – Drive Sober

A year with many changes will end – and a new one will begin – with a constant: increased DUI enforcement

WHAT: In a year when almost everything has been different, one thing that has remained the same is Utah law enforcement’s commitment to stopping impaired drivers. On this New Year’s Eve, just like previous New Year’s Eves, law enforcement will be out working overtime to deter, detect, and remove impaired drivers from Utah’s roadways. The Utah Highway Patrol will join with the Utah Auto Dealers and Mothers Against Drunk Driving to hold a virtual media availability highlighting the statewide enforcement efforts that will ring in the new year.

Utahns can expect to see an increase in DUI enforcement statewide from December 16th – January 1st. During this time, over 250 extra DUI shifts are being worked by 23 different Utah law enforcement agencies, with a majority of these shifts targeting New Years’ Eve celebrations.  Additionally, Utah Highway Patrol will be conducting a statewide DUI blitz and increased DUI enforcement shifts on New Year’s Eve. 

Another constant during this year is the partnerships that remain an integral aspect of DUI enforcement. Two of these partners are the Utah Auto Dealers and the Utah chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Representatives from these organizations will share their commitment to and the importance of reducing impaired driving in Utah.

The media are invited to interview the Utah Highway Patrol and other partners to discuss enforcement efforts happening this holiday season. 

WHEN: Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at 10:00 am 

WHERE: Please contact the PIO for the Zoom meeting information.

WHO: 

• Colonel Michael Rapich, Deputy Commissioner, Utah Highway Patrol 
• Craig Bickmore, Utah Auto Dealers 
• Art Brown, Utah’s Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) 
• Lieutenant Brent Shelby, Utah Highway Patrol (DUI Squad)
• Trooper Chris Bishop, Utah Highway Patrol (Spanish speaker)

VISUALS: 

• Data showing DUI arrest trends, and DUI-related crashes
• Trooper Wahlberg will show a virtual ride along with the DUI squad Wednesday night.  To view the videos, follow UHP @utahhighwaypatrol via Instagram. 
• Lt Shelby from the DUI squad will be available for in-person interviews during the blitz on Thursday, beginning at 9 pm. Meet at the UHP Section Four Office 5681 South 320 West.  Trooper M Vargas will also be available for Spanish speaking. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Trooper Chris Bishop

DPS/UHP – PIO

cbishop1@utah.gov

801.554.5659