Sheriff’s Department taking part in DUI crackdown

Crittenden County law enforcement issues warning: “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving”

By Ralph Hardin

news@theeveningtimes.com

The winter holiday season ushers in parties and festivities, and that means more drunk drivers on the roads. To help keep drivers and their passengers safe, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is warning drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving. Help NHTSA and the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department share this message: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.

Alcohol-impaired driving is deadly and continues to be a factor in fatal traffic crashes in the United States, especially during the holidays.

During the 2018-2022 December months, there were 4,759 people killed in alcohol- impaired-driving crashes.

In December 2022 alone, 1,062 people died in alcoholimpaired- driving crashes. Unfortunately, males and young people are at greatest risk for injury or fatality: In December 2022, drunk male drivers were involved in fatal crashes at a much higher rate (22%) compared to female drivers (16%), and young drivers ages 21-34 accounted for the highest percentage (25%) of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal traffic crashes.

Drivers should be safe during the holidays by planning ahead if they intend to drink.

They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment.

Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.

If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them

See SHERIFF, page A3

Photo courtesy of CCSO SHERIFF

From page A1

get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department.

Drive 100% sober, because “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/ drunk-driving.

Promotion Time

Congratulations to the recently promoted Deputy Mackensey Boyd. Mackensey Boyd who was promoted recently to the rank of Sergeant. “She will assume her duties on the Charlie Shift in the Patrol Division at the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department as second in command,” said Sheriff Mike Allen. “She started out her career as a dispatcher and has four years experience in Patrol and by virtue of training, knowledge, experience and performance she was promoted today. We look forward to your leadership and may God continue to bless you and lighten your path. Congratulation on your promotion, Sergeant.”