This holiday season, the Kewanee Police Department teamed up with the Illinois Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies statewide for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, targeting impaired drivers from Dec. 13 through Jan. 2. 

The result? A safer holiday season with three impaired driving arrests, two arrests for criminal offenses, and five citations for seat belt, speeding, distracted driving and other traffic offenses over a period of eight hours specifically dedicated to this campaign. 

“We can’t stress it enough: Impaired driving is a deadly gamble,” said Chief Stephen Kijanowski. “It’s illegal, it’s irresponsible and it puts lives at risk – yours, your passengers’ and everyone else’s on the road. 

“Campaigns like ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ empower us to address this issue directly and send a clear message,” Kijanowski said. “If you’re under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or anything else, don’t drive.” 

During the campaign, the Kewanee Police Department intensified its enforcement efforts by deploying additional patrol units to deter risky behaviors and catch offenders. 

The enforcement initiative, administered by IDOT and funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, underscores the collective commitment to safer roadways, particularly during high-risk times like the holidays. 

“This effort isn’t just about enforcement,” said Chief Kijanowski “It’s about protecting lives and ensuring every celebration ends safely for everyone.”