Police in Port Wentworth say they’re cracking down on drunken driving during Savannah’s infamous St. Patrick’s Day festival with a traffic operation they’ve dubbed Operation Lucky Charms.
Starting at 4 p.m. Friday, drivers can expect to see a heavier-than-usual law enforcement presence on highways and other streets in the west Chatham County city, said Port Wentworth police Sgt. Brian Phinney.
“Officers have been instructed to issue citations for all traffic violations, no warnings will be given,” Police Chief Matt Libby said in a news release. “Consider this your fair warning to obey the traffic laws when traveling in Port Wentworth,”
In addition to augmented patrols, officers will be conducting random road safety checks at various points in the city to crack down on impaired drivers, unlicensed drivers, uninsured motorists, and unrestrained passengers. Drivers are instructed to have their driver’s licence and proof of insurance ready when they approach a road check to expidite the process.
“We hope that everyone who chooses to celebrate this holiday weekend does so responsibly and we will do our part to keep the roads safe so that they can make it home,” Libby said. “If you decide to drink, please use a designated driver or taxi. There are also programs in place to bring you and your vehicle home should you have too much to drink, so there is really no excuse to get behind the wheel impaired.”
The traffic enforcement initiative will last until 11 p.m. Tuesday, Phinney said.