The Garland Police Department will step up Driving While Intoxicated patrols starting Tuesday, June 25 and run them through Monday, July 8.
The increased DWI patrols are for an Impaired Driver Mobilization (IDM) project. The project is funded through a TXDOT grant program which targets DWI along with Driving Under the Influence by Minors. The patrols will be active in the night time hours by utilizing both marked and unmarked police cars.
Officers will apply for blood search warrants for those drivers who refuse to consent to give a specimen of their breath or blood when arrested for DWI related offenses.
Convicted first-time DWI offenders can pay a fine of up to $2,000, lose their driver’s license for up to a year, and serve 180 days in jail. Safety officials say other costs associated with an impaired driving arrest and conviction can add up to more than $17,000 for bail, legal fees, court appearances, court ordered classes, vehicle insurance increases and other expenses.