Officers with the Garland Police Department are cracking down on driving while intoxicated through Christmas and New Year’s.
Garland police are increasing DWI patrols from December 12 to January 1, according to a press release from Lt. Pedro Barineau. Officers will be especially active at night, in marked and unmarked vehicles, to deter impaired driving and increase safety.
“Impaired driving is 100% preventable,” Garland police officials wrote. “Let’s do our part and keep Garland roads safe this holiday season.”
If residents or visitors plan to drink, department officials encourage them to plan ahead, use a designated driver, or take a rideshare.
In Texas, a first-time DWI conviction can carry serious penalties, including up to 180 days in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, and a suspended driver’s license for up to one year, according to the release. Overall, court costs and fees, mandatory programs, and higher insurance rates can total more than $17,000.
“Impaired driving remains a significant threat to roadway safety across Texas and in our region,” Garland police officials wrote.
More than 1,050 people across Texas were killed in crashes involving alcohol impairment in 2024, making up 25.37% of the total number of statewide traffic fatalities, according to data from the Texas Department of Transportation.
A TxDOT funds the Garland police crackdown impaired driving mobilization grant, aiming to reduce impaired driving crashes – specifically targeting DWIs and minors driving under the influence, according to the release.
Christmas festivities are already underway in Garland, as residents and visitors gathered for Christmas On The Square on December 4.
The Texas Department of Public Safety targeted unsafe driving ahead of Thanksgiving and encouraged residents to travel safely ahead of Christmas and New Year’s, as The Dallas Express reported. Ahead of the holiday shopping season, troopers were deployed to busy areas to ensure safety and curb theft.
