In early September, we published a post advising readers of the DUI Wolf Pack operation that was to take place over the labor day weekend. Wolf pack operations usually occur on most major holidays throughout Pinellas County. Multiple law enforcement agencies, from various municipalities, participate in the event which involves doubling down on efforts to detect impaired drivers and remove them from the road. The operation is part of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office's on-going commitment to reduce death, injuries, and property damage associated with traffic crashes related to impaired driving. The goal of the Wolf Pack, according to the PCSO, is to educate drivers and create public awareness about the dangers of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or chemical or controlled substances.
In a recent press release, the Sheriff's Office published the results of its efforts over the labor day weekend: 12 arrests for DUI; 2 for misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance; 2 for felony possession of a controlled substance; 1 for resisting arrest without violence; 1 for fleeing and eluding (always a felony in Florida); 5 for driving on a suspended license with knowledge (misdemeanor); 1 for driving on a suspended license (felony); 2 for no valid driver's license; and 1 for burglary to an occupied dwelling.
In addition to the criminal citations and/or arrests listed above, participating agencies also issued a number of civil traffic infractions, as follows: 39 for speeding; 5 for driving without insurance; 2 for violation of driver's license restriction; 15 for "other" non-moving infractions; and 16 for "other" moving infractions.
There were a total of 28 criminal charges and 95 citations issued. According to the PCSO, the operation was supported by Mother's Against Driving and Remove Intoxicated Drivers U.S.A., Inc. Wolf Pack and DUI road block operations will continue throughout the year. As always, I will keep you posted.