Highway Patrol busts 100+ for DWI last week

WILMINGTON – The North Carolina State Highway Patrol conducted a special DWI enforcement project in New Hanover and Brunswick Counties during the week of July 12, 2010. The special enforcement project targeted impaired drivers in the two county area. Checkpoints, saturation patrols were utilized to accomplish our mission.

Eighteen Troopers assigned to Troop B, District VI participated in this event. The dedication and desire each member has to ensure highway safety was evident and fundamental to the success of our operation. 117 drivers were cited for driving while impaired, 12 were charged with operating a motor vehicle while less than 21 years of age and having alcohol in their system and 12 were cited for other alcohol related violations. In addition, one fugitive from justice was captured and numerous traffic citations were issued for a variety of violations to include 98 license violations, 11 reckless driving charges, 33 seat belt violations, and 79 speeding tickets. A total of 683 cases were made during the special enforcement project.

Impaired driving is the leading cause of fatal collisions. Through aggressive enforcement the likelihood of alcohol related collisions can be reduced. Over the past two years, New Hanover and Brunswick Counties have experienced a 25 percent decrease in alcohol related collisions and a 10 percent decrease in alcohol related fatal collisions.

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