HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – The Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Houston Police Department, and other area law enforcement officials have announced an initiative to crack down on impaired driving over the New Year holiday.
Starting Friday, officers from various agencies will be targeting intoxicated and impaired drivers.
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Dozens will be out in full force to identify and arrest motorists who choose to get behind the wheel.
Partners in the initiative include the Texas Department of Safety, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, the Texas Department of Transportation, Harris County Constables, and the Fire Marshall’s Office. Also, the police departments in Deer Park, Galena Park, Houston, Humble, Jersey Village, Katy, Metro, and La Porte will be implementing the initiative as well.
Historically, Harris County has had the highest number of deadly crashes related to intoxicated driving.
In 2023 alone, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said that HCSO deputies have made more than 1,500 DWI arrests.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg also spoke at the news conference announcing the initiative Thursday and reminded citizens that the county takes drunk driving very seriously.
“If you’re drunk driving this weekend, you’re going to jail,” Ogg said.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner added that it’s best to have a plan in place if you are going to be drinking. “The message to the public, have a plan, like we already said. (Rideshare), ya know? Get a designated driver. Common sense things because you don’t want to be in jail.”