LANSING, MI. (WSYM) - In just a matter of hours, another "go green" celebration gets underway. FOX 47's Marcus Dash spoke to police about how they plan on cracking down on drunk drivers this Saint Patrick's day weekend.
Lt. Chad Connelly of the East Lansing Police Department says it's normal for his department to be spread thin during this time of the year between dealing with Michigan State basketball fans during the tournament and Saint Patrick's day festivities. They are more than ready to go.
"We've staffed accordingly, we got extra officers coming in both today, tonight, and tomorrow. During the day and tomorrow during the night will be out there making sure everyone stays safe," said Connelly.
Part of the reason why extra officers are coming in is because bars like Dublin Square, are opening their doors at 7 am. Bartender Ethan Taylor tells me they do their own policing from within the bar.
"If people seem too drunk coming in we won't let them in, we have bouncers in the bar and back bar monitoring people who are drinking too much, and we try not to over serve people," said Taylor.
With a nice looking forecast, Connelly says drivers need to be on the lookout for the day drinkers and bar crawlers.
"A lot of people coming and going on foot from the bars, so we ask that people just be cautious and drive safe," said Connelly.
Lt. Chad Connelly says if you have to question how much you drank in order to drive home, he says you are better off playing it safe by throwing the keys away and finding another way of getting home.
"Use Uber or any type of cab or shuttle service to prevent you from driving to keep people safe," said Connelly.
Lt Connelly hopes people have a safe and enjoyable weekend, and to remember to drink responsibly.
