Lubbock Police Increasing Patrols Through New Year's Day

The Lubbock Police Department has announced that they are increasing patrols through the Christmas and New Year holidays.

According to a news release, The Texas Department of Public Safety has announced it will increase patrols targeting drunken driving through Jan. 2. Troopers will focus on monitoring high-risk areas, including highways and establishments serving alcohol.

Spokesman for the DPS, Cpl. John Gonzalez,said regarding the increase in alcohol consumption during the holidays, “Some people really abuse it, especially around New Year’s Day.”. Gonzales also added that DPS officers are hoping the patrols act as a deterrent, discouraging would-be drunken drivers from grabbing the keys. “We’d rather it be a deterrent and everybody have a safe holiday than have to ticket someone or put them in jail for a DWI,” he said.

Statewide, DPS troopers made 1,505 arrests of motorists driving while intoxicated during last year’s holiday season. Let's try to get that number down this year.

If you're celebrating with alcohol this holiday season, call a cab, Uber or contact Citibus Lubbock for special ride programs through New Years Day.