RI police departments join forces for drunk driving task force

For the first time, Rhode Island police departments are combining resources for a statewide drunk driving task force.

President of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association Brian Sullivan, of Lincoln, said the southern part of the state tried it during the Fourth of July holiday last year.

"Agencies that border each other partnered up and the officers patrolled both communities, which increased the ability to look for and detect drunk drivers," Sullivan said.

Local and state police gathered to announce the plan at a news conference on Friday, noting that the effort to cut down on drunk driving is having a positive effect.

"We have people that are being put on for this special duty," said Providence Chief Hugh Clements.

The program began at 7 p.m. on Friday, and will run through the weekend.

Gabrielle Abbate, who is formerly from Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and is now with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, added at the news conference that the responsibility to reduce drunk driving shouldn't rest solely with police.

She emphasized the responsibility of those who have guests at their homes.

"Part of being a great host is sometimes taking somebody's keys away or saying, 'you might have to stay over tonight,'" Abbate said. "You have to put yourself out there. Find a way to do it, prepare yourself."

As the police emphasize, drunk driving is a completely preventable crime.