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Drink and Drive? Your Super Bowl Could Be Spent in Fresno Jail
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By Bill McEwen, News Director
Published 7 months ago on
February 7, 2025

The Fresno Police Department has assigned extra patrol officers to look out for DUI suspects over Super Bowl weekend. Stay out of Fresno County jail and don't put yourself and others at risk by driving impaired. Read the tips in this story for holding a safe party. (GV Wire/Jahz Tello)

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As football fans gear up for the Super Bowl on Sunday, Fresno police remind residents to celebrate responsibly and not drive after drinking, smoking cannabis, or taking drugs.

Failure to follow this advice could result in a costly driving-under-the-influence arrest, injury, or loss of lives.

To enjoy the game responsibly, authorities suggest creating a “Go Safely Game Plan.”

“Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a gathering, or enjoying the game at your favorite spot, planning ahead can make sure everyone gets home safely,” a Fresno PD spokesperson said.

On Saturday and Sunday, additional officers will be on the streets looking for DUI suspects.

Tips for a Safe Super Bowl

Here’s how you can team up for safety for the big game:

• Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.

• Use Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation: Apps and transit options are great alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking.

• Host Responsibly: Offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home.

• Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.

• Stay Alert: Watch for impaired drivers on the road and report them to local law enforcement by calling 911.

• Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products, and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive.

A final reminder: Drivers convicted of a first-time DUI offense face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license, the department said.

DUI (gosafelyca.org)

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Bill McEwen,
News Director
Bill McEwen is news director and columnist for GV Wire. He joined GV Wire in August 2017 after 37 years at The Fresno Bee. With The Bee, he served as Opinion Editor, City Hall reporter, Metro columnist, sports columnist and sports editor through the years. His work has been frequently honored by the California Newspapers Publishers Association, including authoring first-place editorials in 2015 and 2016. Bill and his wife, Karen, are proud parents of two adult sons, and they have two grandsons. You can contact Bill at 559-492-4031 or at bmcewen@gvwire.com

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