POLK COUNTY, Fla. – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) announced Sunday that its deputies arrested 61 individuals for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol and/or drugs last month, underscoring the ongoing threat of impaired driving on local roadways.
These arrests represent only those made by PCSO and do not include figures from municipal police departments or the Florida Highway Patrol within Polk County.
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The statistics from May’s arrests paint a concerning picture. Among the 61 individuals taken into custody:
- 13 were involved in traffic crashes, demonstrating the direct link between impaired driving and increased accident risk.
- Two individuals had a child with them at the time of their arrest, a particularly egregious offense that endangered innocent lives.
- Five individuals were found to be in the United States illegally and have since been placed under an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Hold.
The PCSO urges the public to remain vigilant. If you observe someone who appears to be driving while impaired, do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 immediately. Your timely report could prevent a serious accident and save lives.
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Authorities continue to emphasize that impaired driving is entirely preventable. Choosing a designated driver, utilizing rideshare services, or calling a taxi are all responsible alternatives to getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs.
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