Prince Frederick, MD – It’s a festive time of year but for some individuals “high spirits” takes on a lethal meaning. Getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after imbibing in some of those spirits—whether it’s eggnog, wassail or something as domestic as beer—puts other motorists at risk. According to the Calvert Alliance Against Substance Abuse (CAASA), there were 574 alcohol and/or drug-impaired driving arrests from January to November in 2017. The many holiday season parties and celebrations throughout December into early January have local law enforcement on high alert. Calvert’s two top police agencies—the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police Prince Frederick Barrack—observed the start of the annual campaign to strongly encourage holiday revelers to participate in their Designated Driver Campaign. During the Dec. 5 meeting of the Calvert County Commissioners, both agencies recognized their top driving under the influence (DUI)/driving while impaired (DWI) officers.

The MSP’s top citation writers were accompanied by the new local barrack commander, Lt. Jimmie Meurrens and Sgt. Sciana Roach. They are Tfc. Philip Kaitz, Tfc. Natasha Rucker, Tfc. Shawn Matthews, Tfc. William Costello and Tfc. James Warrick.

Calvert County Sheriff Mike Evans and Assistant Sheriff Col. Dave McDowell accompanied the agency’s top DUI/DWI cops. They are Deputy Nicholas Buckler, Cpl. Tony Moschetto, Dfc. Jason Livingston, Dfc. Dean Naughton and Deputy Robert Shrawder.

“These guys are making a difference—getting them [impaired drivers] off the road,” said Evans.

According to information provided by CAASA, “impaired driving is one of the most often committed crimes, randomly killing someone in America every 30 minutes.”

CAASA offered these tips for the holiday season.
* Limit your drinks and always eat while drinking.
* If you are hosting a party, don’t let your family or friends drive impaired. Provide them with non-alcoholic beverage choices, lots of food, a place to sleep or a designated driver, if needed. If one of your guests has been drinking and shouldn’t drive, take their car keys from them and don’t give them back. Have a plan in place to address the needs of those who drink too much.

As noted in a proclamation the commissioners presented to the officers and members of CAASA’s board, the holiday campaign “provides a unique opportunity for Calvert County restaurants, clubs, bars and civic/service organizations to join forces with Calvert County residents in promoting cooperative, impaired driving prevention efforts.”

“Please do not make alcohol the focus of your party,” said CAASA Board President Kristen DePhilip.

A retired sheriff’s deputy, County Commissioner Pat Nutter, had these observations about the sometimes deadly holiday season. “There are so many temptations this time of year,” said Nutter. “Some people get caught up in the celebration. Use your head.”

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com