Police watching for impaired motorists

During this holiday weekend, drivers in Rumford, Mexico and Dixfield may notice more patrols and roadblocks as police seek to get impaired drivers off roads.

From July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2011, officers in Rumford made 35 OUI arrests. In 2008-09, there were 50 OUI arrests. Police Chief Stacy Carter attributed that decrease to the two bar closures and an increase in the usage of taxis.

“I will say that over the last several years, the increase in taxis has gone up, so people are making better decisions, so I'm hoping that that stems from increased education, stiffer penalties and our increased enforcement efforts,” he said. “So people are getting the message, because we used to be at 91 OUI arrests for a year, so things have certainly gotten better.”

Rumford police have been doing high visibility enforcement for at least 15 years.

“Our OUIs have come down a long ways, most likely because of the increased enforcement efforts and the grants themselves,” said Carter.

As always, police encourage the reporting of impaired drivers to law enforcement, as well as anonymous tips.

Police remind everyone, Don't risk it. If you plan to drive, don't drink. Choose a sober designated driver before going out. Take a taxicab or ask a friend to drive you home. Spend the night where the activity is being held.