In 2009, the Desoto County Sheriff's Department obtained federal grants to assist with highway and traffic safety. Known as "Whiskey Units", these deputies can be seen throughout the county enforcing the rules of the road. These deputies' primary function is simple: ensuring impaired drivers are taken off the roadways.
These deputies have had extensive training in the detection of drugs, alcohol, or anything that would impair a person's ability to operate a vehicle. DUI enforcement deputies participate in safety checkpoints and patrol saturations. They're on the roadways during holidays and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Blitz campaigns, such as "Click It or Ticket". They also assist other agencies with safety checkpoints to help make the roads safer and accomplish their goal of getting impaired drivers off the roadways.
These deputies also provide education to the public on the dangers of impaired driving and the proper use of safety restraints. They speak at colleges, high schools, churches, and at public safety events.
These deputies make hundreds of DUI arrests in a year. The state of Mississippi also has recognized The DeSoto County Whiskey Units by presenting them with "The DUI 100 Club Award".
Impaired driving is one of America's most often committed and deadliest crimes. Our DUI enforcement division sends a clear message to the public: Choose a sober, designated driver. Don't drink and drive. Driving while under the influence is a selfish, dangerous decision that can impact not just your life, but the lives of others. It's easy to do the right thing. Drive sober, or get pulled over.
