Police officers and state troopers from five law enforcement agencies will conduct a high-visibility DUI enforcement campaign across Newport County during the Labor Day weekend, officials announced.
The joint operation, running from Friday, Aug. 29, through Monday, Sept. 1, will involve officers from Portsmouth, Middletown, Newport and Jamestown police departments, along with Rhode Island State Police.
“This campaign will be conducted from Friday, August 29th through Monday, September 1st and will focus on the areas encompassing Newport County,” according to the announcement.
Officers will collaborate to enforce motor vehicle violations with a specific focus on drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The Providence Police Department’s Breath Alcohol Testing Mobile Unit will be deployed to assist with processing suspected impaired drivers.
The initiative receives support from the Rhode Island Office on Highway Safety and the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. Officials said the campaign aims to educate the public about the dangers of impaired driving while reducing crashes caused by drunk or drugged drivers.
Law enforcement officials encourage residents to plan transportation before drinking and to designate sober drivers. They also urged the public to call 911 to report suspected impaired or erratic drivers.
“Remember, the cost of a ride share is much lower than the costs associated with a DUI arrest, notwithstanding the tragedies that often occur with them,” the announcement stated.
The Labor Day weekend traditionally marks one of the busiest travel periods of the summer, with increased traffic on roads throughout Rhode Island.
