The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported more than 1,500 alcohol and drug-related arrests statewide over Fourth of July weekend, nearly 500 more arrests than last year.
Troopers saw a 33.5% increase in OVI arrests and an 88.3% increase in drug-related arrests from last year.
Statewide, troopers made the following arrests:
- 908 OVI arrests (operating a vehicle under the influence)
- 624 arrests for drug-related charges
All arrests and incidents occurred Friday, June 30 to Tuesday, July 4.
In addition to arrests, the State Highway Patrol responded to 807 crashes, with 17 fatalities. According to reports, five of those fatalities were related to drivers under the influence.
“When someone chooses to drive after a night of drinking, the consequences can be deadly,” said Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol superintendent. “That’s why troopers make OVI enforcement a priority, whether they’re patrolling during a long holiday weekend or any other night. Motorists should be smart and always plan a sober way home.”
The holiday weekend marks the deadliest weekend for vehicles so far this year. In 2016, 13 fatalities were reported over Fourth of July weekend.
In Cuyahoga County, Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to 2,052 incidents.
Other enforcement incidents include:
- 9,568 safety belt enforcements
- 2,014 cases of driving with a suspended license
- 1,662 cases of aggressive driving
The Patrolpublished a full report on the weekend's enforcement.
