MCTX NYE: DWI No Refusal Patrols Boosted

Montgomery County Implements "No Refusal" DWI Enforcement for New Year's Eve

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – As residents prepare to ring in 2024, Montgomery County law enforcement agencies are enacting a robust "No Refusal" initiative coupled with heightened patrols to combat impaired driving during the New Year's Eve celebration. The aggressive stance aims to ensure the safety of motorists and prevent tragic consequences often associated with drunk driving.

The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, in collaboration with numerous local and state police departments, will activate its "No Refusal" initiative starting at **5 p.m. on Sunday, December 31, 2023, and continuing through 5 a.m. on Monday, January 1, 2024.** This means that any driver suspected of operating a vehicle while intoxicated who refuses to provide a breath or blood sample will face immediate legal action. Prosecutors and judges will be on standby throughout the enforcement period to swiftly secure warrants for mandatory blood draws, ensuring that crucial evidence of blood alcohol content is preserved. This strategy is a common, legally-backed tool used across Texas during high-risk holiday periods to deter impaired driving and facilitate prosecution.

Motorists can expect a significantly increased law enforcement presence across major roadways and within city limits throughout Montgomery County. Dedicated patrols will be visible along key routes including **I-45, SH 105, SH 242, FM 1488, FM 1485, FM 3083, and FM 1774**. Cities and communities targeted for heightened enforcement include **Conroe, Willis, Splendora, Roman Forest, Cut and Shoot, Oak Ridge North, and Shenandoah.**

This comprehensive effort involves a wide array of agencies committed to public safety, including the **Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, all five Precinct Constables, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Conroe Police Department, Willis Police Department, Splendora Police Department, Roman Forest Police Department, Oak Ridge North Police Department, Shenandoah Police Department, and even Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens.**

The intensified enforcement comes as Montgomery County continues to grapple with the severe impact of impaired driving. In **2022**, the county reported **134 fatal crashes resulting in 150 fatalities**, with a significant portion of these tragedies directly linked to drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These statistics underscore the critical need for proactive measures to safeguard lives on local roadways.

Montgomery County District Attorney Brett Ligon emphasized the shared responsibility everyone has to celebrate safely. "We want everyone to celebrate responsibly and make plans for a safe ride home," Ligon stated. "No one wants to start the new year in jail, or worse, in a hospital or morgue."

The message from law enforcement and county officials is unequivocal: if your New Year's Eve plans include consuming alcohol, plan ahead for a sober ride. Options include designating a sober driver, utilizing ride-sharing services, calling a taxi, or taking public transportation. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents and visitors can enjoy a safe and joyous start to 2024 without the preventable tragedy of impaired driving. For more information on impaired driving prevention, visit the TxDOT "Drive Sober. No Regrets." campaign website.