The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association wants to remind drivers they are putting themselves and others at risk by driving under the influence this weekend.
“The most important thing you can do if you are celebrating this weekend is to make a plan to get home safely,” said Colonel Brad Connor, Warwick Chief of Police and President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association. “Designate a sober driver, use rideshare or stay where you are, but do not drive if you have been drinking or using cannabis.”
The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association reminds drivers of the penalties involved with driving under the influence. A first offense can result in a one-year jail sentence and a mandatory license suspension of three to 18 months. Drivers could also be ordered to perform 10 to 60 hours of community service and pay a fine of $200 to $500.
Anyone caught driving under the influence can be asked to submit to a chemical test of their blood, breath, or urine. Those who refuse the test could face criminal penalties, including up to six months in prison for a second offense and up to one year for a third or subsequent offense.
“We also want to remind Rhode Islanders that whether it’s a pint of Guinness, green gummies, or a mix of both, it all adds up to impairment. Please make a plan to be safe and don’t forget to buckle up,” Connor said.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
