The Johnson City Police Department is stepping up its game to tackle impaired driving during the festive period. In collaboration with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office (THSO), JCPD announced they are increasing patrols starting this Friday, aiming through New Year’s Day. The move is part of the broader Booze It and Lose It campaign, which itself is a segment of the national initiative by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to curb impaired driving incidents over the holidays, as per the city's news release.
The JCPD is prioritizing safety during the holiday season. In a statement obtained by Johnson City's official website, Chief Billy Church expressed, "The JCPD wants everyone to have a happy holiday season. If you choose to drink, make the smart decision to plan for a sober ride." For those caught driving under the influence in Tennessee, the repercussions for a first-time DUI offender can be severe, including hefty fines, legal expenses, and possible jail time. The Tennessee Highway Safety Office is highlighting the serious consequences of driving under the influence, including mandatory drug and alcohol treatment and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device in offenders' vehicles.
Grant funding from the THSO supports JCPD's increased enforcement efforts during the holiday season.
