Guns, cars seized as KC-area police target impaired driving over holiday weekend
Law enforcement agencies in the Kansas City area made a number of arrests and issued citations as part of a Memorial Day weekend crack down on impaired driving and illegal street activity.
Between the Kansas City and Independence police departments, 20 people were arrested for violations Friday night.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office partnered with KCPD to arrest 13 suspects, tow 14 vehicles, recover 10 guns and issue 41 citations.
Officers zeroed in on illegal street activities, encountering street racers, people running red lights, illegal dirt bikes, DUI, fake IDs, and other violations, according to a KCPD social media post.
Independence police said it stopped 92 vehicles during a DWI saturation patrol Friday. Citations were given for 39 hazardous moving violations and 65 non-moving violations.
One person was arrested on suspicion of impaired driving, and four people were arrested on suspicion of felony drug charges. Two people with outstanding warrants were also arrested, the police department said in a news release.
Police vigilant for impaired drivers
Other law enforcement agencies across the metro put out advisories over the weekend saying they are watching for impaired drivers.
In a social media post Friday, the Overland Park police department urged drivers to be responsible and have a plan for transportation if they are drinking.
“Your life and the lives of others on the road are at risk every time a driver gets behind the wheel after drinking,” the post said.
The post also included tips for people celebrating over the weekend:
- Before drinking, choose a designated driver, or schedule a ride-sharing, ride-hailing or taxi service.
- If you are hosting a party where there’s alcohol, offer non-alcoholic drink options and make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
- Always wear your seat belt — it’s the best defense against drunk drivers.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, safely pull over and call law enforcement
The Merriam Police Department also posted on social media Friday, saying they’re watching for impaired drivers.
“If you’ve been drinking, get a ride. No exceptions,” the post said.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol said more people are on the roads and waterways over Memorial Day weekend each year.
On social media, the highway patrol also urged the public to be safe over the weekend.
“Every available trooper will be on patrol to keep Missouri travelers safe,” the post said.
