BEND, Ore. – As the weekend kicks off with multiple events, including Valentine’s Day celebrations, WinterFest, and the Presidents Day holiday, the Bend Police Department is ramping up efforts to ensure public safety by adding additional DUII patrols across the city.
In a post shared on social media Friday, the department announced it would be conducting overtime patrols, specifically targeting drivers suspected of operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This move comes as part of the city’s efforts to prevent impaired driving and ensure that the festivities don’t end in tragedy.
“Don’t take any chances,” the post warned. “If you’re under the influence, do not get behind the wheel.”
Sergeant Todd Guthrie explained that these overtime patrols are often funded through grants from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), providing the police with additional resources to monitor the streets during high-traffic weekends.
With the combination of alcohol, crowded events, and the increased number of drivers on the road, authorities are urging the public to plan ahead for transportation, whether through ridesharing services or designated drivers, to avoid driving under the influence.
The department’s increased presence aims to not only reduce the risk of impaired driving but also to reinforce public awareness about the importance of road safety during this busy weekend.
