According to Sheridan Police Captain Tom Ringley, driving under the influence remains the deadliest everyday threat to people of the community.
Ringley noted that the agency doubles the frequency of arrests by the worst-case scenario, highlighting that one catastrophe can change the lives of a family and an entire community.
Capt. T. Ringley
While citations are trending downward, Ringley said another trend is cause for concern.
Capt. T. Ringley
The Captain praised Sheridan’s drinking establishments for implementing responsible business practices that have helped to reduce impaired driving.
He stated that many of these practices were not common two decades ago, and that as a patrol officer, he conducted far more DWUI stops than officers do today.
Nonetheless, controlled substances remain a significant factor. According to Ringley, 11.3% of DUI arrests involve drugs, including marijuana and prescription medications that were not issued by a doctor.
Ringley emphasized the importance of continued vigilance by law enforcement, businesses, and the community in keeping Sheridan’s roads safe.
