MPD and others out in force on New Year's Eve

Medford, Ore — As the minutes tick down to midnight local police departments are cracking down on impaired drivers.

Medford Police, along with Central Point P.D., Oregon State Police and Talent P.D., among others are out in force.

They’re not out just to catch drunk drivers, they want to be seen so you won’t be tempted to get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.

Everyone wants to have fun on New Year’s Eve, but for those who make the decision to drive impaired, police are on the lookout.

“Our main goal is to be a presence out here to deter people from drinking and driving,” said Cpl. Tom Venables.

Corporal Venables is one of more than a dozen Medford police officers on the streets this New Year’s Eve.

“Don’t trust yourself after you’ve consumed alcohol because that’s when bad decision are made and we want to inform people prior to them drinking, so they can have a safe and fun evening,” said Cpl. Venables.

MPD encourages making a plan ahead of time, designate a driver, take a taxi, stay the night, anything to keep you and others safe this holiday season.

“We really do take it seriously, we want people to have fun but if necessary we will arrest you for DUI,” said Cpl. Venables.

Corporal Venables says impaired driving doesn’t necessarily mean you’re over the blood alcohol limit, if officers believe you’re driving impaired, they will arrest you.

So make a plan ahead of time.