Almost 200 DWI Charges Filed Pre-New Year’s

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HOUSTON – An innovative approach to discourage drunk driving was undertaken by Houston law enforcement agencies on New Year’s Eve. Initial data reveals that in the three days leading up to 2024, more than 150 charges were filed.

Kim Ogg, the Harris County District Attorney, declared at a press conference that hundreds of police officers would be patrolling the streets, ready to apprehend drunk drivers before they could cause harm.

Related: New initiative targeting drunk drivers for New Year’s in Houston

She also announced a no-refusal policy, under which, if a cop smells alcohol on a motorist or suspects them of drunk driving, on-field prosecutors can promptly secure warrants and bring the offenders before an on-duty judge.

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Harris Co. has the highest number of DWI deaths in the nation.

Authorities collaborated to intensify the crackdown on drunk drivers this New Year’s Eve weekend. FOX 26 Reporter Damali Keith offers more details.

Drivers may also be subject to a blood warrant, which is deemed the most reliable proof of intoxication — blood samples would be collected regardless of their approval.

Preliminary figures provided by the DA’s Office indicate a total of 180 DWI charges were filed from December 28 to December 30.

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Breakdown of the charges from Dec 28 – Dec 30:

Dec. 28: Seven no-refusal blood warrants and 58 DWIs (44 first-offense misdemeanors and eight third-offense felony DWIs).

Dec. 29: Twenty-three no-refusal blood warrants and 36 DWIs (29 first-offense misdemeanors, five second-offense DWIs, and two third-offense felony DWIs).

Dec. 30: Fifteen no-refusal blood warrants and a total of 86 DWIs (63 first-offense misdemeanors, 13 second-offense DWIs, six third-offense felony DWIs, and four DWI felonies involving a minor).

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