Multnomah County, OR. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office is launching a focused Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) enforcement operation running from December 10, 2025, through January 1, 2026.
Patrol deputies will increase enforcement and visibility across the county to identify and arrest impaired or dangerous drivers. The operation is scheduled to coincide with the busiest holiday travel days and late-night hours, when impaired driving incidents historically rise. The dual focus, according to MCSO, is prevention and enforcement.
“Impaired driving is one of the most preventable threats on our roads,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Our deputies will be using these targeted enforcement operations to keep dangerous drivers off our streets and to ensure everyone in Multnomah County can travel safely.”
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows that drunk-driving crashes kill about 34 people every day in the U.S.—one death every 42 minutes. MCSO says its holiday enforcement aims to reduce preventable crashes, injuries, and traffic-related deaths by deterring impaired driving before it occurs.
Intoxicants include alcohol, illegal drugs, inhalants, marijuana, and prescription or over-the-counter medications that can impair driving ability.
MCSO offered several tips to help reduce DUII risk during the holiday season:
• Plan ahead: Choose a sober driver before using intoxicants, or arrange for a taxi, rideshare, or public transit.
• Know your limits: Oregon drivers can be prosecuted for DUII even with a blood alcohol content below .08%. Deputies urge motorists to avoid driving any time they’ve consumed intoxicants.
• Avoid dangerous combinations: Mixing alcohol with certain medications can cause drowsiness or unsafe interactions.
• Give up the keys: If you’re unsure whether you’re safe to drive, leave your car keys with someone you trust.
• Host responsibly: Provide non-alcoholic beverage options and help guests arrange safe transportation.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages community members to make safe choices to avoid penalties and prevent injuries or deaths on local roads. Residents should always call 9-1-1 to report suspected impaired or dangerous drivers.
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