Funding for the enforcement initiative from March 6-22 comes from an $11,905 Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) grant from the Texas Department of Transportation to address DWI enforcement.
The STEP grant provides overtime to staff increased enforcement in targeted areas, an extra resource that does not affect SLPD's normal operations.
"Too many people still don't understand that alcohol, drugs and driving just don't mix," said Sgt. Wayne Coleman, of SLPD's Traffic Division. "Impaired driving is no accident -- nor is it a victimless crime. Lives are lost, and we need everyone's help to stop it. If you do drink and drive, your chances of being arrested will go up significantly during the next couple of weeks."
A first-time arrest for drunken driving is a Class B misdemeanor offense that carries the possibility of 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000 and the loss of their driver's license for as long as a year.
A second offense within 10 years is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a $4,000 fine and a year in jail. Subsequent offenses are third-degree felonies, punishable by a $10,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison.
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