SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Suffolk County police will increase patrols on roads and waterways throughout Labor Day weekend as part of a crackdown on impaired driving and boating.
The heightened enforcement will run from Sept. 4 through Sept. 7, with officers taking a zero-tolerance approach to people driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Suffolk County officials said.
Highway Patrol Bureau Selective Alcohol Fatality Enforcement Team officers will be among those conducting high-visibility patrols across the county.
Police will also target aggressive driving and seatbelt violations. The enforcement effort will use funding from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Safe Driving Enforcement grant and Suffolk County Stop-DWI grant.
During Labor Day weekend in 2025, Suffolk police arrested 24 people for driving while intoxicated.
“Labor Day Weekend highlights the end of the summer season for many families, and we do not want a joyous weekend to turn into a tragic one,” Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine said. “If you chose to act irresponsibly, law enforcement will be out in full force and hold you accountable.”
Romaine urged people to plan ahead for a safe way home.
Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina said officers will have a heightened presence on both roadways and waterways throughout the holiday weekend.
“In this day and age where a ride is always available at your fingertips, there is no excuse for driving while intoxicated,” Catalina said. “Do not put your life or anyone else’s life in jeopardy.”
Police will also patrol popular downtown business districts, large public gatherings and what officials described as vulnerable entities.
Residents should call 911 for emergencies or 631-852-COPS for non-emergencies.
Anonymous crime tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS, through the P3 Tips app or at P3Tips.com. Tipsters may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000 if their information results in an arrest.
