DUI arrests and accidents are increasing in California while declining in other states. In 2005, there were 1,719 alcohol-related fatalities in California, up from 1,667 in 2004. Alcohol-related traffic fatalities in California have increased every year since 1998. In Ventura County, approximately 3,723 individuals were charged with driving under the influence in 2005. Five individuals were charged with causing the death of another while driving impaired.In supporting “Make It Home for the Holidays,” Totten stated, “Too many lives have been lost or forever altered because someone chose to drink and drive. By taking the keys away from an impaired party guest, a friend or loved one, each of us can save lives and prevent tragedy. This holiday season, let’s all do our part to combat driving under the influence.”
“Make It Home for the Holidays”
December 22, 2006
Santa Paula News
District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced that his office is participating in a statewide campaign, “Make It Home for the Holidays.”
District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced that his office is participating in a statewide campaign, “Make It Home for the Holidays.” This outreach program seeks to bring greater public awareness to the problem of driving under the influence (DUI), a crime that typically increases during the holiday season, too often with tragic results for innocent citizens.“Make It Home for the Holidays” is being coordinated by the California District Attorneys Association as a part of the $3.4 million grant the organization received from the Office of Traffic Safety. This new grant funds five Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutors. Each prosecutor will be assigned to one of five regions in California. These specially trained prosecutors will provide education and training statewide.The program also includes enhanced public outreach and awareness efforts. As part of the public awareness program, at Totten’s request, the County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution supporting the “Make It Home for the Holidays” campaign.The District Attorney’s Office will also be asking the media to air public service announcements over the holidays urging the community to help promote safety for all by reporting suspected impaired drivers and discouraging friends and loved ones from drinking and driving.
