Niagara County Sheriff's Office to participate in statewide Memorial Day weekend high-visibility engagement campaign

Niagara County Sheriff's Office press release

Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti announced law enforcement agencies throughout Niagara County will participate in the STOP-DWI high-visibility engagement campaign during Memorial Day weekend, May 22-25. This statewide initiative is focused on promoting roadway safety, encouraging smart decisions, and preventing impaired driving crashes during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

Memorial Day weekend is a time for families, friends and communities to gather while honoring the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to this nation. As residents and visitors take part in ceremonies, gatherings and holiday weekend activities, law enforcement is reminding everyone to celebrate responsibly and make a safe plan before getting behind the wheel.

As part of this effort to deter impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives, law enforcement officers across New York will increase patrols and enforcement through the STOP-DWI high-visibility engagement campaign. During the May 22-25 campaign period, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, along with local law enforcement agencies countywide, will conduct targeted enforcement efforts to reduce alcohol- and drug-impaired driving and related crashes, injuries and fatalities.

This campaign emphasizes both enforcement and community engagement. Deputies and officers will be working to educate the public, encourage responsible choices, and remove impaired drivers from the roadways. Drivers are reminded that impairment can result from alcohol, cannabis, prescription medications, illegal drugs, or any combination of substances. Regardless of the source, impaired driving places the driver, passengers, pedestrians, other motorists, and first responders at serious risk.

The STOP-DWI high-visibility engagement campaign is one of several statewide enforcement initiatives supported by STOP-DWI New York and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Similar campaigns are conducted throughout the year during high-risk travel periods, including the Super Bowl, St. Patrick’s Day, the “100 Days of Summer,” Independence Day weekend, Labor Day weekend, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the holiday season.

STOP-DWI enforcement efforts across New York have contributed to significant reductions in alcohol- and drug-related traffic fatalities. However, impaired driving remains a leading cause of preventable deaths. Highly visible and well-publicized enforcement initiatives such as this campaign are designed to deter impaired driving, increase public awareness, and promote safer roadways for all.

Niagara County law enforcement agencies encourage everyone to enjoy Memorial Day weekend safely, honor the meaning of the holiday, and make responsible decisions. Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver. Use a rideshare service, taxi, public transportation, or stay where you are. Never drive impaired.