COLUMBUS COUNTY — As St. Patrick’s Day celebrations continue across the region, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office is stepping up impaired‑driving enforcement this week as part of North Carolina’s “Booze It & Lose It” campaign, a long‑running statewide effort recognized as one of the nation’s most effective anti–drunk‑driving initiatives.
The enforcement period runs March 16–22, with deputies increasing patrols, conducting saturation patrols, and operating checking stations throughout the county. The initiative is coordinated through the N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program, which partners with law enforcement agencies statewide to reduce alcohol‑related crashes.
Since its launch in 1994, “Booze It & Lose It” has combined public education with high‑visibility enforcement. Officials say the approach has saved lives — but the dangers remain significant. More than 9,000 people have been killed in alcohol‑related crashes in North Carolina since the program began.
“Impaired driving isn’t just risky — it’s deadly,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement promoting the campaign. Nationally, an average of 37 people die every day in alcohol‑related crashes, all of which are considered 100% preventable.
Drivers caught operating a vehicle while impaired face steep consequences, including jail time, loss of driving privileges, and an average of $10,000 in fines, towing, legal fees, and other costs. But officials emphasize that the financial penalties pale in comparison to the potential loss of life.
The Sheriff’s Office also shared a reminder aimed at St. Patrick’s Day revelers: “He thought he was lucky… but luck doesn’t stop blue lights.”
Residents are urged to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, calling for a ride, or staying where they are if they’ve been drinking.
“Make it home safe — that’s the real luck,” the agency said.
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