10-03-2025
‘Booze it and Lose it' campaign underway across North Carolina
NORTH CAROLINA (WGHP) — As we approach St. Patrick's Day, law enforcement across the state is reminding motorists not to drink and drive.
On Monday, Governor Josh Stein's Highway Safety Program launched the St. Patrick's Day 'Booze It and Lose It' enforcement campaign, aiming to keep impaired drivers off the road ahead of the holiday.
According to a press release from the N.C. Department of Transportation, now through March 17, drivers can expect an increase in the number of patrols and driver checkpoints by law enforcement across the state.
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'Embracing fun traditions is one thing; engaging in the deadly behavior that is drinking and driving is another. Getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol puts lives at risk,' said Colonel Freddy L. Johnson, Jr., commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. 'As law enforcement officers, we witness firsthand the devastation and loss caused by alcohol-impaired driving, along with the lasting pain it inflicts on families, friends, and entire communities. Drinking and driving is not an option, but making sure someone sober will be behind the wheel is.'
Law enforcement issued 784 DWI charges during last year's campaign. Of those charges, 71 were issued to drivers under the legal drinking age.
'The consequences of driving while impaired are life-altering,' said NCGHSP Director Mark Ezzell. 'Alcohol clouds a person's judgement, and anyone planning to drink should always prepare by planning for a sober ride home.'
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