Suffolk County police are heightening patrols in response to the elevated threat of drunk driving during the Thanksgiving holiday, specifically targeting the night known as "Blackout Wednesday." According to ABC7 New York, Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina emphasized the importance of making responsible choices, stating, "Don't get behind the wheel if you've been drinking or using drugs. Again, there is no excuse for it. It's selfish, it's stupid."
Last year, this holiday period was marred by multiple crashes due to impaired driving. In an effort to prevent similar incidents this season, police will be visibly present in both marked and unmarked cars. Raymond Tierney, Suffolk County District Attorney, told ABC7 New York that tragedies are more than likely on the horizon, given that "this is the biggest bar night of the year." Through increased enforcement, they hope to drastically reduce these potential incidents.
Local establishments are also preparing for the surge of festivities. Mike Flynn, a bartender at Arooga’s Grille House and Sports Bar in downtown Patchogue, detailed to News 12 Long Island how they plan to accommodate the influx of patrons: “Just make sure we’re over staffed,” he said, expressing their readiness for the busy evening.
The police’s focus isn't solely confined to the roads, though; they are also concerned about an uptick in scams during the holiday season, particularly those targeting the elderly and distracted shoppers. Catalina suggested to ABC7 New York that scammers possibly need money for the holidays just like everyone else, which might be why there's an increase in scams this time of year. He advised those affected to not be ashamed and to contact law enforcement quickly to increase the chances of recovering lost funds.
In the name of safety, Suffolk County has made it clear they will be actively checking for impaired drivers. Catalina issued a stern warning: "If you're stupid enough to get caught up in one of those checkpoints, you will be arrested," he informed via News 12 Long Island.
