PennDOT, State Police Increasing Halloween DUI Patrols

and PennDOT are teaming up to increase patrols through the Halloween weekend, according to a release issued Tuesday.

The increased DUI patrols, which will include municipal police departments, will be funded in part with federal funds distributed through PennDOT, the release says.

"On Halloween last year, there were 322 crashes statewide, resulting in nine deaths. Of those crashes, 64 were alcohol related and accounted for six fatalities," the release stated.

Authorities are also aiming to crack down on underage drinking drivers.

“Many drivers under 21 don’t realize that different rules and penalties apply to them if they are caught drinking and driving,” said PennDOT Secretary Barry J. Schoch. “Putting people’s lives in danger by getting behind the wheel while impaired is senseless and can result in tragedy. It’s just not worth the cost.”

The release also aims to remind parents of the consequences of providing minors with alcohol.

Adults, even parents, who are convicted of knowingly and intentionally supplying minors with alcohol are subject to a fine of at least $1,000 for the first offense and $2,500 for each additional offense, and face up to a year in jail, the release says.

The increased patrols will continue through November 1.