Rhode Island DUI Task Force makes 32 arrests on ‘Blackout Wednesday’

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island DUI Task Force say they arrested 32 people on the night before Thanksgiving.

That number was significantly higher than “Blackout Wednesday” 2022 — with only seven arrests.

North Kingstown Lt. Don Barrington of the task force told ABC 6 News last year he had expected to arrest 15 to 20.

He said the task force is to make sure everyone gets to the table and spends the holidays with their families.

ABC 6 News rides along with North Kingstown Lt. Don Barrington of the Rhode Island DUI Task Force. (WLNE)

“It’s about keeping people safe,” Barrington said. “We don’t want to arrest anyone. But unfortunately, people’s actions make us have to arrest people.”

Law enforcement will keep a close eye on Rhode Island roadways throughout the holiday weekend.

The agency includes state and local police, as well as the Department of Transportation and the attorney general’s office.

Anyone with questions regarding the deployment can contact Barrington at 401-626-2859.