Local law enforcement officials are concerned about a small bump in recent days of driving under the influence charges and are planning to step up enforcement efforts through New Year’s weekend to keep drivers safe along the roadways during the final round of holiday travel to and from parties for 2021.

An uptick was noted by at least one law enforcement official over an increase in DUI offenses in recent days, and the County Police, Cedartown Police, and Sheriff’s Office all have plans to increase patrolling during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day nights in hopes of keeping drunk or drugged drivers off the roadways.

From December 17 through December 28, some 12 DUI arrests have been made by city and county police officers. Most of those are occurring at night.

In response to that, the Cedartown Police and the County Police have already planned to have extra officers in place around the area this evening and Saturday night. Those who plan to go to parties will need to have a designated driver if they plan to drink and avoid trouble on the roadways.

Polk County Police Chief Kenny Dodd said that his department will have extra officers on shift during the night hours, and no drunk driving will be tolerated.

“We want everyone to get to where they are going and back home safely,” Dodd said. “Our officers are out there to protect the community during the holidays from those who might think they are good to drive when they aren’t. Please, do yourself a favor and give your keys to a designated driver.”

Along with stepped-up patrols, the forecast does call for increased chances of rainfall and storms. Those who are planning on traveling during New Years Eve and Day should take that into account before deciding on their final party plans.