News Release

WARSAW – With the holidays quickly approaching, the Warsaw Police Department, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana State Police will once again be partnering with the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute in an effort to keep roads safe and prevent traffic fatalities.

This is part of the annual Safe Family Travel Campaign, supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Warsaw Police Department and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office will be combatting impaired driving for the holidays. Image provided.

Starting Wednesday, Nov. 26, and running through the end of December, this campaign will focus on impaired driving, aggressive driving, and seat belt violations. During this time, officers will work overtime, conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols to deter unsafe driving and encourage seat belt use.

“We see the consequences of unsafe driving every day,” said Douglas Huntsinger, executive director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. “By buckling up, slowing down, and never driving impaired, we can all help make Indiana’s roads safer this season.”

According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes, especially during the holiday season. Likewise, failure to wear a seat belt continues to be one of the most preventable causes of death on the road.

WPD Patrol Captain Brad Kellar said, “All of us who travel through the city have a vested interest in contributing to safer roadways. We have all felt the brunt of construction this year; with the bridge over SR 15 now open, and Husky Trail’s construction nearing completion, these are two areas we will be concentrating our traffic enforcement, along with other key locations. As you celebrate this holiday season, be responsible and arrange for a sober driver to get you home. Just know that our officers will be looking for impaired drivers.”

“Driving safely is a shared responsibility,” said Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith. “If you plan to drink, plan a safe ride home. Stay sober behind the wheel or arrange a sober ride before the night begins.”

Motorists are encouraged to call 911 to report unsafe or impaired drivers.

For more safety tips, visit the NHTSA site here.