Video: Columbus Police Gear Up For Holiday Safety

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Columbus, Miss. (WCBI) — With the new year right around the corner, celebrations and parties will be had all over Columbus.

The Columbus police department began their holiday patrol Wednesday to remind residents to celebrate safely and not drink and drive.

The department was out in full force, setting up checkpoints in various locations around the city, and continued the stops until 1 A.M.

“The thing that we’re trying to do is, for the community and the people of Columbus, is to make sure everybody is safe, make sure the roadways are safe so that everyone can get to and from their destination in a safe manner”, said Corporal Eric Lewis.

The checkpoints were successful, as multiple arrests were made for a variety of charges.

Officers also spoke about the many different excuses they’ve heard from drunk drivers trying to get out of an arrest.

Lewis, who has been with the department for about 17 years, said someone told him, “…I left my license in my brother’s pants, or my friends pants, I got on the wrong pants…”

Patrol Officer James Hanson said one person Wednesday night told him, “…”I’ve just borrowed this car”…said “I need to talk to a guy” because he had no tag…and no driver’s license…”

Hanson also said that no myth will help sober you up once you’re pulled over and that “…you can google them, and I challenge them to come out here and beat the test. You just can’t…”

The department asks residents to have a designated driver or someone sober who can drive and safely bring residents home.

Officers also said if you have no other options, call the department and if there are any available units, they will assist in getting patrons home safely.

For New Year’s Eve, officers will be on bar patrol from 10 P.M. to 2 A.M. making sure the community stays safe.

Categories: Local News

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