RUMFORD — Rumford police will partner with Mexico and Dixfield police to conduct high visibility patrols for drunken drivers from now through Labor Day.

The extra work will be paid for with a $3,689 grant Rumford police received from the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety, Chief Stacy Carter said Thursday afternoon.

Carter said the impaired driving enforcement effort, which supports the national Drunk Driving Over The Limit, Under Arrest campaign, “is designed to target and decrease the number of impaired drivers on our highways.”

“The program was a little different last year, as the grant went for a longer period,” he said. “However, on the saturation patrols and roadblocks, we had two OUI arrests, two operating after suspensions, and 14 other summonses.”

Participating officers also issued 24 warnings for various violations.

“Our number of OUIs are actually down, which is a good thing and testament that the increased patrol and high visibility enforcement is working,” Carter said. “We’d much rather have voluntary compliance.”

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During the details, Rumford police will conduct extra patrols and roadblocks. They will also work with Mexico and Dixfield police “to keep the highways of the River Valley safe,” Carter said.

Additionally, to keep the motoring public safe, he said his department is asking for voluntary compliance from drivers.

As a reminder, Carter said, “Don’t risk it. If you plan to drive, don’t drink. Choose a sober designated driver before going out. Take mass transit, a taxicab or ask a friend to drive you home. Spend the night where the activity is being held.”

As always, he added, Rumford police also encourage the reporting of impaired drivers to law enforcement, as well as anonymous tips.

tkarkos@sunjournal.com


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