Wake Forest Police warn motorists not to drink & drive after 10 DWI weekend arrests

The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) is warning local drivers not to drink and drive after arresting 10 people for Driving While Impaired (DWI) over the weekend and 19 since July 1. For the year, Wake Forest Police have arrested 103 people for DWI - up from 58 over the same period last year.

“There’s no excuse for impaired driving, and we have a zero-tolerance policy against it,” said Police Chief Jeff Leonard. “Driving under the influence is careless and reckless and endangers the lives of drivers, their passengers, and others on the road.”

Leonard strongly encourages community members who choose to travel and choose to drink alcohol to plan ahead by designating a sober driver or by using a ride sharing service.

“A taxi, Uber, or Lyft are all a lot cheaper than what a DWI would cost or even worse, what a deadly crash will cost you and others,” he said.

Those convicted of DWI face up to $13,500 in legal fees for a first offense, along with driver's license suspension.

Leonard says Wake Forest Police officers will continue to be on the lookout for intoxicated drivers.

“Impaired driving is entirely preventable,” said Leonard. “You have a choice. If you’ve been drinking, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you where you’re going safely.”