TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Local law enforcement agencies are stepping up patrols ahead of the St. Patrick’s Day holiday, and celebrations surrounding March Madness.
This year, Indiana State Police will be out on local roadways as part of its “Operation Pullover” enforcement campaign.
State troopers will be out looking for drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana. While their main focus will be on impaired drivers, Sgt. Matt Ames, with Indiana State Police, says troopers will also be looking out for unsafe drivers and those who aren’t wearing a seat belt.
Ames says, if you do plan to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, or March Madness, plan ahead.
” Make sure you plan before you start consuming any alcohol. We’re not saying you can’t consume any alcohol, but, make sure you’re making your plans appropriately beforehand. How are you going to get home? Are you going to have a designated driver? Are you going to use an Uber? Are you going to use a taxi service to get home safely?”
This year, March Madness will feature two Indiana teams, Purdue and Indiana University. Ames says, with all of the interest in those match-ups, State Police will likely stay busy.
“We believe there’s going to be a lot of people that will go to local establishments enjoying all of the games but, especially, watching that Purdue and the coveted IU and watching them cheer their teams on, but, make sure you’re making the appropriate plans to get home safely.”
Police often see an increase in impaired driving cases during this time of year.
