2007 Events --> November 21, 2007
Large grant meant to send message about drinking and driving

Westland - A large grant will be used to step up efforts to slow drinking and driving, particularly during the holidays, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Sheriff Warren Evans and Westland Mayor William Wild announced today.

The $750,000 grant doubles funding in recent years to keep intoxicated drivers off Wayne County roads. Three drivers were killed in alcohol-related accidents on county roads during last year's Thanksgiving holiday. Nearly 20 others were hurt or seriously injured. And hundreds more were arrested countywide for alcohol-related driving offenses. Thanksgiving in particular is regarded as an unofficial party weekend, with many teens and young adults visiting home from school or outside the state.

The grant funds are distributed among the sheriff's department, 17 Wayne County law enforcement agencies and other awareness efforts to stem the number of alcohol-related arrests and accidents.

Failure to heed public warnings about stepped up law-enforcement could likely mean "calling a family member from jail," not the way to celebrate the holiday festivities, the county executive said of anyone considering drinking and driving. The campaign also has the support of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving chapter in Wayne County.

Sheriff Evans, backdropped by officers from a number of partner agencies, said public awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving and using a designated driver are part of the effort to help make the holidays safer.