Police announce extra DWI patrols through Labor Day

BEMIDJI – The Bemidji Police Department, Beltrami County Sheriff’s Department and Minnesota State Patrol will step-up drunken driving patrols now through Sept. 3 as part of a state- and nationwide DWI enforcement campaign.

A DWI offense can result in the loss of a driver’s license for up to a year, thousands of dollars in fees and possible jail time. Repeat offenders must use an ignition interlock, which requires a breath sample for each time the driver tries to turn on their vehicle, in addition to potential license suspension, costs and jail time.

Law enforcement will also be on the lookout for drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts. The enhanced policing is a component of the state’s Toward Zero Death (TDZ) initiative.

The Safe Neighborhoods Coalition encourages people to plan for a safe ride, buckle up and wear protective motorcycle gear where applicable and call 911 to report drunk driving.