There were fewer DUI arrests over New Year’s in Horry County. Here are the numbers
Horry County saw fewer DUI arrests this New Year’s holiday compared to last year, and officials say they hope it’s because people are making better decisions.
There were 16 people booked into J. Reuben Long Detention Center on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day on DUI charges, according to jail records. That is down from 23 during the 2019 festivities.
In South Carolina, first-offense DUI is punishable by a fine of up to $400, between two and 30 days in jail and a six-month suspension of a driver’s license.
South Carolina Highway Patrol troopers are responsible for traffic enforcement on many main roads in Horry County. Cpl. Sonny Collins said the state had a “sober or slammer” campaign on social media to remind people to use ride-sharing programs, such as Uber or Lyft.
“I hope it’s because people are making better decisions,” Collins said of the decrease.
Troopers had traditional workload on New Year’s, Collins said. The rain also helped as it led to fewer crashes. There were no fatal wrecks during New Year’s in Troop 5, which includes Horry County.
Myrtle Beach police arrested two people over the two-day span on DUI charges, according to city arrest logs.
“Hopefully, this trend will continue through 2020 as drivers are becoming more aware of the dangers of driving under the influence and utilizing rideshare and taxis after drinking,” Cpl. Thomas Vest said.
