Police Patrols Stepped Up Over Labor Day Weekend

Cameron County residents poised to enjoy the Labor Day weekend are being advised to exercise some self-control.

The warning comes from the Pennsylvania State Police. In response to the recently announced federal crackdown on drunken driving, troopers at the Emporium barracks are beefing up enforcement over the next two weeks.

They'll be looking for drivers who have overindulged in alcohol, as well as those violating speeding, seat belt and other traffic laws. "The overall goal of the campaign is to protect the public," Trooper David Andrascik told the Endeavor. He's the DUI field supervisor for the Pa. State Police.

"In order to

do that, and in

keeping with the new federal policies, we're launching a public relations campaign to persuade people to be more responsible," Trooper Andascik added.

Police hope that drivers will respond to this "word to the wise." If not, they'll be sending the message in a much more personal way: fines, court costs and, in some cases, potential jail terms.

"It's pretty simple -- stay sober if you intend to drive," Andrascik said.

As part of the federal crackdown on DUI, local barracks have received funding to add 500 more hours of patrols throughout the Montoursvillebased Troop F region, which includes Cameron County. Many municipal police departments are also participating, under the theme, "Drunk driving: Over the limit, under arrest."