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ALTON — The Alton Police Department announced it will join with the Drug Free Alton Coalition and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office to conduct special patrols, including roadside safety checks, Friday, Oct. 17, through Sunday, Oct. 19, in an effort to reduce drunken driving by teens.
“Too often, fun school events can be a deadly and dangerous time on our roadways because of drunk driving,” Alton Police Sgt. Michael Gordon said. “That is why this weekend, we will be working overtime on roadside safety checks to catch and arrest anyone who is driving drunk.”
Alton Police Department Public Information Officer Pfc. Emily Hejna said adults should take extra care, too.
“The details will be focused to reduce teen alcohol and drug use; however, anyone found in violation of the law will be ticketed.”
Designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk are just two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for drunken driving, no matter your age.
“Driving drunk is a deadly decision and it is against the law. We will show zero tolerance to all drivers,” Alton Police Chief Jason Simmons said. “So remember, designate a sober driver and always buckle up.”
The increased patrols are funded by the Drug Free Alton Coalition in an effort to reduce drug and alcohol abuse among youth.
In addition to increased patrols, the Drug Free Alton Coalition will partner with the local faith community to offer a free event for high school students called 5th Quarter on Friday, Oct. 17. The event will begin at 9:30 p.m., after the Alton High School football game, in the Calvary Baptist Church gymnasium, 1422 Washington Ave., and will end at 11:30 p.m. so students can be home before curfew. To encourage students to attend, transportation will be provided from the game to the event by area churches. No RSVP is necessary to attend the event, but if a student requires transportation, it is requested they RSVP by visiting www.drugfreealton.com.