As we move past the festive cheer of Christmas and towards the excitement of New Year’s Eve, it’s essential to reflect on the observations and advice from law enforcement agencies. The Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) have shared their experiences and guidance for a safe holiday season.
This year’s Christmas in Corpus Christi was noticeably quieter compared to previous years, according to the CCPD. However, New Year’s Eve’s approach brings its own challenges and concerns.
During the Christmas period, the police and DPS reported fewer significant incidents. Despite this, it wasn’t wholly incident-free. Some reports of gunfire in the city turned out to be false alarms, and the DPS dealt with several traffic accidents. Sgt. Rob Mallory of the DPS highlighted 17 accidents in the Coastal Bend area over the holiday weekend. Fortunately, these incidents involved only minor to non-severe injuries, most single-vehicle crashes.
Lt. Michael Pena of the CCPD noted increased traffic, particularly around shopping areas like Moore Plaza and the Saratoga and Staples. The increased police patrols in these zones were instrumental in maintaining order and safety.
A significant achievement this Christmas was the absence of fatalities on the highways, which both DPS and CCPD attribute to people heeding the advice to drive safely. Sgt. Mallory expressed relief that they did not have to deliver tragic news to any families during the holiday season.
As we transition from Christmas to New Year’s Eve, Lt. Pena warned of the heightened risks during this period. The CCPD plans to deploy additional officers with a focus on preventing driving while intoxicated (DWI). Pena emphasized the importance of having a designated driver to ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities safely.
Sgt. Mallory also stressed the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings, especially during the holiday season, which is filled with various activities and celebrations. He reminded everyone to have a plan for returning home safely if they intend to consume alcohol at parties or events. This plan should include a designated driver who remains completely sober.
The DPS also reminded the public of the severe financial consequences of a DUI charge, which can amount to $15,000 to $20,000 in legal costs. This serves as yet another reason to celebrate responsibly and make safe transportation arrangements.
In conclusion, as we bid farewell to a quieter Christmas and gear up for New Year’s Eve, let’s take a moment to appreciate the efforts of our law enforcement in keeping us safe. Their observations and advice are invaluable in ensuring we can enjoy the holidays without unnecessary risks or tragedies. Let’s all play our part in making the roads safer and the celebrations joyous for everyone.