CASPER, Wyo. — On Wednesday, the Natrona County DUI Task Force, comprised of the Casper Police Department, the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office, the Wyoming Highway Patrol and the Evansville, Mills and Bar Nunn police departments, announced that it will be conducting a coordinated countywide DUI enforcement operation over Memorial Day weekend.
A release from the Task Force says that the operation will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and end at 11:59 p.m. Monday.
The release states that between 2023 and 2025, the task force responded to 355 vehicle crashes involving alcohol or drugs across Natrona County. Twenty-four of the crashes involved fatalities.
According to the National Safety Council, holiday weekends are associated with an uptick in vehicle crashes, many of which are related to impaired drivers. The release notes that impaired driving refers to operating a motor vehicle while ability is compromised by alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs.
“The emphasis of our efforts this weekend is on crash reduction and removing dangerous drivers from our roads,” stated Shane Chaney, Casper Police chief. “Driving under the influence, and the devastating results it causes, is entirely preventable. Together, we can make a real difference and make our community safer for everyone.”
The DUI Task Force offered up the following tips and alternatives to driving impaired:
- Plan ahead: Arrange a sober ride, taxi or rideshare service before going out. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use an alternative form of transportation, like the Natrona County Safe Ride program (307- 266-7233).
- Be a responsible host: Ensure guests have safe transportation options.
- Take the keys: Intervene if someone is planning to drive impaired.
- Report dangerous drivers: Contact local law enforcement if you see suspicious driving.
