| For Immediate Release October 24, 2005 |
Contact: | Mark Macaulay Media Relations Spokesperson (714) 347-8405 Office (714) 323-4486 Cell |
OCDA receives grant to step up fight to take “drunk drivers” off the streets
SANTA ANA – The Orange County District Attorney’s Office is stepping up the battle against repeat driving under the influence (DUI) offenders through a new program that provides additional training of prosecutors and law enforcement, the Office announced today. The program is paid for through a $691,631 grant from the state’s Office of Traffic Safety.
“Drunk drivers kill innocent people. They are a two ton wrecking machine,” said Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas. “This money will help us focus on DUI repeat offenders, those who have not learned their lesson. These individuals must be dealt with in a strong manner to keep our roads safe. It is a great first step and the grant comes right before the holidays when drunk driving is at its worst. A part of our strategy will be to teach the public of the consequences of drunk driving.”
Campaign materials will be developed in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Korean emphasizing the risks and consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This program is aimed at reducing the number of alcohol and drug-involved collisions and increasing traffic safety throughout Orange County.
“Getting the word out that repeat DUI offenders are a hazard is crucial,” said OTS Director Christopher J. Murphy. “The Orange County District Attorney’s Office is embarking on a campaign that will save lives and prevent injuries.”
The grant will enable the District Attorney’s Office to dedicate an experienced prosecutor and clerical support to focus exclusively on repeat offender DUI cases in the West Justice Center in Westminster.