NEWPORT, R.I. — Police across Aquidneck Island and South County are ramping up enforcement ahead of the Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade, warning that anyone driving under the influence should expect to be caught.
On Saturday, March 14, officers from the Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Jamestown, North Kingstown, and South Kingstown police departments will team up with the Rhode Island State Police for a high-visibility crackdown targeting motorists suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The regional operation will also include the Providence Police Department’s Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) Mobile Unit, which will be stationed nearby to evaluate and process drivers suspected of impairment.
Authorities say the coordinated effort is designed to deter impaired driving during one of Newport’s busiest days of the year, when thousands of people pack the city for the annual parade and celebrations.
The enforcement campaign is being supported by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation’s Office on Highway Safety and the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association.
Police are urging paradegoers to plan ahead before celebrating.
Designate a sober driver, use a ride-share service, or arrange a safe ride home before drinking, officials said. Anyone who sees a driver behaving erratically or suspected of being impaired is encouraged to call 911.
Authorities say the message is simple: a ride share costs far less than a DUI arrest — and far less than the devastating consequences that can come with impaired driving.
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