New Year's Eve drunk driving enforcement, agencies gear up
MILWAUKEE - As the clock ticks closer to 2024, bars – and law enforcement – are gearing up.
More than 40 agencies with the Southeast Wisconsin Impaired Driving Task Force will be out and about keeping an eye on the roads. They urge everyone to have a good time – but to do so safely.
"If you have been drinking, you're planning on driving – opt for another choice," said Sgt. Timothy Reymer of the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office. "People need to remember, though, just because a squad isn’t behind you, that doesn’t mean that a citizen out there that's observing your driving."
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Reymer said they are taking no chances and bringing out every tool. That includes breathalyzer tests.
"We just mentally prepare for whatever comes our way," said Sgt. Sean Patyk with the Franklin Police Department.
Patyk said there has been a startling increase in people driving while drunk.
"Statistically, the average OWI violator commits 80 violations a year without even being caught, so they're always going to be out there," he said.
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Before you go out, Patyk said to make a plan on how to get home.
"We don’t want to lock people up. We don't want to arrest people if we don’t have to," said Patyk.
New Year's Eve in Milwaukee; sobriety challenges, legal consequences
As bars across Milwaukee prepare for New Year's Eve celebrations, criminal defense attorneys and advocates say everyone should prepare to stay safe.
Both sergeants agree: getting behind the wheel after any drink is not worth taking the risk.
"We want you to enjoy many, many more years to come," Reymer said. "Don’t make this New Year's your last."
Law enforcement said you could face fines over $850 for your first OWI. They said getting a ride or calling someone is a lot cheaper.