Labor Day DWI enforcement begins soon

Gregg County deputies will begin their Labor Day "Drink, Drive and Go to Jail" project on Aug. 21, according to a news release issued Wednesday morning from the sheriff 'office.

"We are starting today, getting the message out to the motoring public of our intent to again enforce DWI related laws in Gregg County, August 21st through September 7th," Lt. Mike Claxton said.

This is the 4th dedicated campaign for this budgeted year. Deputies are hopeful the reduced trend of DWI offenders encountered during the July 4th period will continue with even fewer arrests and citations this month and in September.

"This is a critical time in preparing the public and those who may consider driving while intoxicated that the consequences are costly, complex and confining," Claxton said. "We want to continually remind the citizens that the DWI statues and prosecution efforts are designed to offer the most severe punishment for the offenders."

"Historically, DWI offender based offenses have been strong during this particular segment of the year, and we are planning to use enhanced and extended enforcement periods to help insure the safety of the public," Sheriff Maxey Cerliano said. "The results of the July 4th wave showed that the program works and we are hopeful the numbers continue to decrease."