SOMERVILLE - In an effort to ensure the safety of all Somerset County residents, Somerset County Sheriff Frank J. Provenzano has pledged to assist the Somerset County Chiefs of Police and Prosecutor’s Office initiative to address the ongoing epidemic of drunk driving.

“The goal of our office’s participation is not only to prevent drunk driving but to educate motorists about the dangers of driving drunk,” Sheriff Provenzano said.         

The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office has been committed to securing grant funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) to support its ongoing DUI-enforcement efforts. To date $20,000 in grant funds has been obtained for this initiative.

Sheriff Provenzano said his office will use these funds to conduct three key activities that will help thwart drunk driving. “I believe educating the public and getting the word out about the penalties and dangers of drunk driving is essential,” he said.

The first activity will involve the production and dissemination of drunk-driving information pamphlets that illustrate the harm and costs associated with drinking and driving.  Sheriff’s Officers will distribute pamphlets during public-information events and at motor vehicle stops.

The second activity will be the operation of targeted DUI patrols within the county during statistically high-risk times as set forth by NHTSA.  Sheriff’s Officers will be perusing, investigating and apprehending motorists who drive while intoxicated.

The third activity will involve setting up DUI checkpoints in accordance with NHTSA guidelines. “We want to reach as many motorists as possible and educate them, rather than have misinformed motorists drive while intoxicated,” the sheriff said.

Going forward, Sheriff Provenzano plans to continue to seek further NHTSA grant funding to build on his DUI prevention and enforcement efforts. “Safety is Number One, and I am pleased that through our grant efforts we are able to assist other county law enforcement agencies in combatting drunk driving,” he said.

For more information about this joint initiative or to request educational information and materials, contact Officer Tom Carlucci, Grant Coordinator, at (908) 231-7140, extension 9.