POUGHKEEPSIE, NY … Various law-enforcement agencies throughout Dutchess County are out en masse to stop impaired driving during the holiday season, during a focused effort currently underway which runs through Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. Departments are stepping up their patrols as part of a coordinated effort to reduce alcohol-related crashes, injuries and deaths during this period.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Let’s all do our part to keep everyone safe on the roads this joyous holiday season. If you plan to celebrate with friends and loved ones, please make sure you have a safe way to get home. As always, I thank our hard-working, law-enforcement officers who protect our roads throughout the year.”
The campaign is part of STOP-DWI’s broader “High Visibility Enforcement” initiative, supported by the New York Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, and involves agencies across the state working together to reduce alcohol- and drug-related crashes during peak times.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2019 to 2023, nearly 5,000 people nationwide were killed during the month of December in alcohol-impaired crashes.
The statewide STOP-DWI High Visibility Enforcement initiative also targets other peak travel periods throughout the year, including Super Bowl weekend, St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day weekend, July 4th, Labor Day weekend and Halloween.
Impaired driving is both illegal and preventable. Residents are encouraged to download the STOP-DWI “Have a Plan” mobile app or arrange alternative transportation before drinking.
