Pre-Halloween DUI emphasis results in 5 arrests, 16 citations

Nearly 200 drivers were stopped by Vancouver, Washougal and Clark County officers Saturday as part of an impaired driving emphasis.

In total, police made contact with 192 drivers, which resulted in five arrests for driving under the influence, 16 citations, 27 warnings and six arrests for other cause.

Kim Kapp, Vancouver Police spokesperson, said the number of stops is high compared to other recent emphases. On Oct. 14, for example, only 29 contacts and two DUI arrests were made.

“Halloween is one of those holidays where we seem to have higher rates of impaired driving, especially since Halloween is on a Tuesday — all the parties are over the weekend,” Kapp said.

The DUI enforcements are thanks to a Washington Traffic Safety Commission grant that funds officer overtime to conduct regular patrols, especially on weekends and holidays.

“We’re hopeful that impaired drivers will stay home,” she said. “But if they can’t stay home we’re going to be out contacting them and arresting them. That’s the whole purpose of this grant.”

On Halloween night, police will once again hit the streets, but not specifically to find impaired drivers. Officers will instead be on the look out for trick-or-treaters in need of reflective gear. Kapp said officers will also educate groups on pedestrian safety to ensure Halloween is fun for everyone.