MEXICO — Additional patrols for drunken drivers and safety belt violators began Wednesday thanks to a grant from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and Highway Safety.

Sgt. Roy Hodsdon said the Mexico Police Department received $2,400. This is at least the sixth year the department has received such a grant.

The funds will allow additional four-hour OUI patrols and two-hour safety belt check patrols in addition to the regular police patrol coverage.

Hodsdon said most of those special details will be on the road during the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s weekends. They will continue through early January 2010.