Lawton, OK – As the new year was ushered in, law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma ramped up efforts to keep impaired drivers off the streets. With New Year’s Eve typically being a night of heavy celebrations fueled by alcohol and even medical marijuana, authorities warned residents about the dangers of driving under the influence and increased patrols to ensure safety.
Deputy Aaron Brilbeck of the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office described the scene as officers encountered drivers under the influence of marijuana. “As soon as we pull them over, they roll down the window and this plume of smoke comes out like a Cheech and Chong movie,” said Brilbeck, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that driving under the influence of any impairing substance, whether prescribed or not, is illegal. “If my doctor prescribes morphine to me, I can’t drive under the influence of morphine. Very same with medical marijuana,” he added.
Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III echoed Brilbeck’s concerns, underscoring the significance of the department’s mission to reduce DUI-related crashes, which he described as “catastrophic incidents” that affect families on all sides. Sheriff Johnson’s team worked tirelessly, using both full-time and reserve deputies to saturate the area, making it one of their busiest nights in terms of personnel and resources.
The results were notable. Oklahoma County deputies reported arresting three individuals on suspicion of driving under the influence. “When you see that, you’re like, ‘Wow. That’s something to be proud of,’” said Sheriff Johnson, highlighting the department’s commitment to keeping impaired drivers off the roads.
Other local law enforcement agencies also had varying outcomes. In Edmond, police made four DUI arrests, while Moore police arrested two individuals. In contrast, neighboring Pottawatomie County reported no DUI arrests despite several traffic stops. The sheriff’s office there teamed up with McLoud and tribal police departments, but no impaired drivers were apprehended.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol posted several images of their traffic stops on social media, showing the active presence of officers, but they have not yet released specific figures regarding DUI arrests from their operations.
Despite the varying results, the overall message from law enforcement remains clear: impaired driving is a serious offense with far-reaching consequences. As Sheriff Johnson put it, “One DUI arrest is one too many,” reaffirming the importance of keeping Oklahoma’s roads safe during the holiday season.
