Ormond Beach Police Department to Participate in Operation Dry Streets Initiative.

Written by Kristen Schmutz – BC News (Belden Communications News)

The Florida Sheriff’s Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, and the Florida Highway Patrol announced the launch of Operation Dry Streets initiative today. The focus is to keep roads safe for citizens and visitors across the state.

The operation will target drivers who are impaired or otherwise jeopardize public safety, by ignoring traffic laws in Florida.

The three-day operation will be in effect in all 67 counties, which includes identifying traffic violators and visible signs of impairments, enhancing safety, and raising community awareness.

“As a highly desirable tourist destination, and in addition to our 22 million permanent residents, Florida enjoys a substantial influx of visitors each year. This means more vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians traveling on our roadways, in our communities, and on our beaches,” said FSA President and Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. “The Florida Sheriffs Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, and Florida Highway Patrol are launching Operation Dry Streets to target anyone who drives impaired and jeopardizes public safety. If you drive on Florida’s roads do so responsibly because law enforcement will be watching. Don’t end up a statistic during this coordinated statewide operation.” 

The following statistics will be recorded:

• Warnings issued 
• Uniform traffic citations issued 
• DUI arrests 
• Driving While License Suspended or Revoked or no DL arrests/criminal citations 
• Misdemeanor Drug and other arrests 
• Felony Drug and other arrests 
• Hours dedicated during this enforcement period 
• Social media, sign messages, and related communications developed and distributed to citizens 
• Citizen education efforts conducted through this operation 

The operation will begin Friday and run through the weekend until Sunday, March 15.