Santa Maria Steps up Law Enforcement for New Years Eve

On Thursday, December 31st, the Santa Maria police department will double its enforcement for the evening. It wants to keep people safe heading into the new year.

Officers say they’ll be looking for intoxicated drivers, and they want to let everyone know that the use of fireworks will not be tolerated.

The California Highway Patrol will also increase enforcement.

The CHP will observe the New Year with a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from 6:01 p.m. on Thursday through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.

“Drunk driving is one of the deadliest crimes we face as a nation,” CHP commissioner Joe Farrow said.

Officers want people to plan ahead and use programs like cab services, Uber, Lyft, or make sure to have a sober driver.

Last year during the 2014-2015 New Years Eve holiday, 28 people died in collisions on California roadways.

AAA also offers a service called ‘Tipsy Tow,’ during the New Year’s Eve holiday. This is its 20th year for the program.

KCOY 12’s Nataly Tavidian will have a live report this evening on Central Coast News at 5 p.m.