The streets might just be a bit safer in Rice County as local law enforcement reports a welcomed decline in driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenses. According to the county's official news release, the decrease continues the trend observed over the past two years, following a concerning upswing in DWI numbers in 2021 and 2022. Northfield Sgt. Kevin Tussing, coordinator for Rice County’s Toward Zero Deaths grant, said anecdotal evidence suggests increased awareness from sober-driving initiatives may be driving the decline.
The Rice County Safe Roads Coalition isn’t slowing down despite recent positive news. At its Wednesday meeting, the group launched its annual holiday enforcement campaign, which will run on weekends through New Year’s Eve, as per Rice County. The effort is part of a broader statewide initiative to keep Minnesota roads safe during the holiday season.
The local push for safer driving follows sobering statistics. Preliminary data show 342 roadway fatalities in Minnesota as of Nov. 24. Between 2020 and 2024, the state recorded 668 deaths and 1,926 serious injuries from alcohol-related crashes. Despite these numbers, Rice County officers remain determined, issuing 238 DWI citations in 2024.
Recognition for their efforts comes with the territory. During the campaign kickoff, three officers were honored for their outstanding contributions to traffic safety. Faribault Police Officer Billy Madson, who issued 14 DWIs, was awarded a DWI Enforcer All-Star honorable mention. Rice County Deputy Sheriffs Benjamin Borash and William Dopp received challenge coins for their dedication during enforcement waves, with Borash issuing a remarkable 12 citations for hands-free violations in just four hours and Dopp handing out 16 speeding tickets in a five-hour span. Sheriff Jesse Thomas expressed his support for the proactive approach, telling Rice County's news outlet, "I encourage my patrol deputies to make traffic stops," adding that it serves dual purposes of both addressing traffic violations and enhancing community safety through visible law enforcement presence.
