MCSO Increases Impaired-Driving Enforcement

MADISON COUNTY, Tenn. — The holiday weekend is coming up and local officers are partnering with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office to help keep you and your family safe on the roads this weekend.

Through Sep. 2, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting extra patrols in high traffic areas during their “Booze It and Lose It” campaign.

“The goal of the campaign is to reduce alcohol related crashes across the state of Tennessee,” said Sergeant Richard King.

Sgt. King says the sheriff’s office has increased the number of deputies this weekend to combat drinking and driving.

“It’s a DUI saturation, we are going to be everywhere,” Sgt. King added.

If convicted of a DUI, you could face several consequences ranging from fines and costs to mandatory jail time,” said Sgt. King.

In addition to the possible fines and jail time, there is also the possibility of the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

“We strongly urge people if they are going to be out drinking this holiday weekend to actually be responsible and have a designated driver. Don’t take the risk because you know if you do, you are going to end up messing up, being locked up and having a free stay at the Madison County jail,” Sgt. King added.

Officers say they are concerned about your safety and strongly encourage you to find a designated driver.

“You might be having a good time this weekend, but keep in mind there are other people out there so be responsible, be safe, have a designated driver and do the right thing,” said Sgt. King.

Officers say they hope the increased message about the dangers of drunk driving, coupled with the increased sobriety checkpoints and high visibility enforcement, will drastically reduce the number of drunk driving crashes, injuries and fatalities this year.

The Tennessee Highway Safety Office provides grant funding to support the Madison County Sheriff’s Office’s increased enforcement efforts during the “Booze It and Lose It” campaign.