February 17, 2020  |  01:33 pm

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is joining other local law enforcement agencies in a coordinated effort to reduce drunk driving fatalities during the Carnival season.

The state-wide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign that was used over the Christmas and New Year's holiday season is expanding this year to include Mardi Gras.

From February 14-27, 2020, additional deputies will be assigned to saturated patrol efforts to target impaired drivers. The campaign, which is coordinated and funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, will also include DWI checkpoints.

“Drunk driving is not acceptable and Mardi Gras is no excuse,” said Sheriff Randy Smith. “It is essential to plan a sober ride home before you ever leave for the parade.”

Remember that driving under the influence of illegal narcotics can also lead to a DWI arrest. In fact, some legal medications can impair your ability to drive. Always read warning labels and instructions on prescription and over-the-counter medications.

“Our attitudes and actions have to change when it comes to drunk driving,” Sheriff Smith said. “If you choose to drink and drive—and it is a choice—you risk not only your own life but the lives of innocent people in our community.” 

Sheriff Smith thanks citizens for their cooperation and patience when passing through these checkpoints and for recognizing the importance of raising awareness for safety issues.