Wilmington Police ready for New Year’s Eve

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Safety and security are major concerns around the country and world this New Year’s Eve after recent attacks on so-called soft targets.

Here in Wilmington, police say they are ready for what the big night of partying brings.

Wilmington Police Department spokeswoman Linda Rawley says WPD always has extra officers downtown on New Year’s Eve to handle the revelry and any problems that may come with it.

Rawley says more officers will also be assigned to monitor heavily traveled areas to look for potential drunk drivers. She says if you plan to go out to party, you should have a designated driver plan in place or take a cab, Uber or any other safe ride home. Rawley also says anyone hosting a party needs to be responsible for their guests, especially if alcohol is served.

WPD will also have officers out around churches that have late-night services to ring in the New Year, Rawley says, to monitor the church property and parking lots.

Her best advice is for everyone to keep their eyes and ears open to help make sure they have a safe and happy celebration.