Overton Sheriffs Force Out For New Years Eve

Several Upper Cumberland Police Departments and the Tennessee Highway Patrol will be ramping up patrols for New Years Eve.

Overton County Sheriff John Garrett said they are doing a DUI Detection Saturation. Garrett said that Detection Saturation ensures everyone on duty New YEars Eve will be actively looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence, as one of there priorities. Garrett said by increasing the patrol, it puts pressure on certain people.

“It’s definitely a deterrent,” Garrett said. “When the folks know were gonna be out there, sometimes, sometimes, it will cause them to make decisions with better judgement and plan ahead.”

Garrett said drunk driving accidents happen sporadically across the county. He said planning ahead is essential, such as arranging for a designated driver, setting a departure time, and making necessary preparations. Garrett said taking these precautions will reduce the risk of accidents and keep roads safer for everyone.

“Folks, please, if you chose to celebrate the holiday and you’re drinking, please do so responsibly,” Garrett said. “Find sober ride, stay in place until the alcohol wears out of your system. That way we can all have a safe and happy new year.”

Garrett said that anyone who sees someone stumbling out of a gas station or suspects drunk driving should call 911 immediately. He said staying on the phone with the dispatcher during the call is advised. Garrett said that, even if the person is a friend, being a better friend means stopping them from getting behind the wheel.

“You could be saving that persons life,” Garrett said. “You can be saving an innocent family who driving home from church or wherever, you could be saving there life. You could be saving that person form going down a bad bad road.”

Garrett said drinking and driving is not worth the risk. With increased patrols tonight and Detection Saturation, you might just find yourself getting picked up by the officers, not a ride share.