RIPCA reminds residents to drive sober, extra patrols on New Years Eve
CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association said additional patrols will be on the roads this New Years Eve to catch impaired drivers.
RIPCA advises residents to drive sober, designate a sober driver, use rideshare, or make a plan to stay where you are.
“With so many safe options, there’s simply no excuse for driving under the influence,” RIPCA President Colonel Bradford Connor said. “Extra patrols will be on the roads, so make the right choice.”
In 2024, RIPCA made over 900 DUI arrests, according to Connor.
Police said the B.A.T. mobile will be posted at 1150 Reservoir Avenue in Cranston, which helps officers arraign DUI suspects.
The mobile unit has a breathalyzer and holding cells, as well as allows officers to test, fingerprint, and detain potential drivers under the influence.
RIPCA listed the following penalties for the first offense of driving under the influence:
- Potential sentence of up to one year of jail time at the ACI
- Obligatory license suspension from three to 18 months
- Obligatory community service from 10 to 60 hours
- Min. fine of $100, max. fine of $500
- Fees can reach a few thousand dollars
In the state of Rhode Island, individuals are required by law to submit a chemical test of blood, bleach, or urine.
If the test is refused, RIPCA said the follow penalties can occur:
- For a first offense:
- RI drivers licenses can be suspended for six months to one year, or changed to a permit operation with an ignition interlock device, also known as a breathalyzer, for a certain period of time
- Fine from $200 – $500
- 10-60 hours of community service
- Attend a course on DUI and/or alcohol or drug treatment
- One or more offenses within the past five years can result in criminal penalties:
- Incarceration of up to six months for second offense
- Incarceration of up to one year for third or subsequent offense
- Increased license suspension or ignition interlock period, fines, community service
