Police enforce extra patrols on Thanksgiving eve

Thanksgiving eve is known as one of the deadliest days on the road.

Police stressed Wednesday to take alternative methods of transportation before taking the wheel.

Millions of Americans are traveling to reach their destinations of choice for turkey dinner and all the fixings.

Locally, law enforcement is ready.

Bill Thompson is Assistant Chief with St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department.

“We’ll have extra officers on patrol looking for nothing other than looking for impaired, distracted or otherwise hazardous drivers. So if you are going to be using any alcohol or anything like that, take a cab, take an Uber, take something,” said Thompson.

According to Mishawaka Police Department statistics, in Mishawaka alone in 2014, there were 115 crashes on Thanksgiving eve, 4 of them were alcohol related.

In 2015, there were 11 more crashes, but those alcohol related incidents were cut in half.

A warning Wednesday from the men in blue making sure everyone can enjoy Thanksgiving safely.

“Don’t get behind the wheel, because there are extra officers on patrol specifically looking for that – just to make sure they keep everyone safe for the holiday,” said Thompson.