POCATELLO, Idaho — Law enforcement agencies across southeast Idaho will launch targeted DUI patrols Friday ahead of the Independence Day holiday weekend to crack down on impaired driving.
The safety initiative, organized by the Southeast Idaho Traffic Safety Task Force, arrives during a historically dangerous time on Idaho roads. According to the Idaho Idaho Transportation Department, more than 30 people have died in traffic crashes since the start of the “100 Deadliest Days” — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities traditionally spike.
“The choices people make before they celebrate can make all the difference,” Idaho State Police Lt. Todd Orr said. “If your plans include drinking, plan ahead. A simple decision to arrange a sober ride before you celebrate could save your life or someone else’s.”
The multi-jurisdictional enforcement surge includes a coalition of state, county, and municipal departments:
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State: Idaho State Police (Districts 5 and 6)
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Counties: Bannock, Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power county sheriff’s offices
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Municipalities: American Falls, Blackfoot, Chubbuck, Montpelier, Pocatello, and Preston police departments
Authorities urge motorists to help keep roads safe by immediately reporting suspected impaired drivers to 911 or by dialing *ISP (*477).