N.C. officials step up impaired-driving enforcement for Halloween weekend

By Chuck Thompson | The Shelby Independent

CRIME / AFFECTS LOCAL — North Carolina law enforcement agencies are increasing patrols and conducting sobriety checkpoints through Nov. 1 as part of the state’s annual Halloween impaired-driving enforcement campaign.

The Governor’s Highway Safety Program announced the return of its “Booze It & Lose It” campaign ahead of Halloween, reminding motorists to plan ahead and arrange safe transportation before attending celebrations.

The enforcement period runs from Oct. 26 through Nov. 1 and includes agencies across all 100 North Carolina counties.

According to the N.C. Department of Transportation, alcohol-related crashes claimed 387 lives on North Carolina roads in 2025, while drug-related crashes accounted for another 105 deaths.

During the state’s Halloween enforcement campaign in 2025, officers made 594 DWI arrests, the department reported.

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State officials are encouraging anyone attending Halloween parties or other celebrations to designate a sober driver, arrange a taxi or rideshare, or make other transportation plans before heading out.

The campaign also reminds motorists not to ride with someone who is impaired and to keep a safe distance from suspected impaired drivers.

Halloween celebrations across Cleveland County and the surrounding area are expected to bring families, pedestrians and motorists onto local roads throughout the weekend.

Drivers are urged to remain alert, watch for pedestrians, slow down in residential areas and avoid distractions, particularly after dark.

The statewide campaign continues through Sunday, Nov. 1.

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Chuck Thompson is a reporter and columnist for The Shelby Independent. 

THE SHELBY INDEPENDENT.