Marietta Police Department Gets Boost in Funding for DUI

A federal grant has given the Marietta Police Department much needed funds to better target citizens driving under the influence on city streets. Earlier this month, the department received $83,000 by way of the H.E.A.T. grant renewal.

The grant will be used to combat drunk drivers and, in turn, lower crashes, injuries and fatalities that occur as a result of those who choose to drink and get behind the wheel. The gran was first awarded to the city in 2010. In 2011, DUI citations rose by more than a 100 thanks to the ability to specifically target impaired drivers.

Not only will the money be used to take drunk drivers off the streets, but it will also be used to provide education regarding driver safety, encourage seat belt use, and outline the dangers of drunk driving. According to Officer Brian Wallace, “It has definitely contributed to the overall drop in fatalities.”

As part of the conditions of the grant, the department must submit a monthly report of its arrest numbers, and provide educational opportunities to citizens within its district. The grant is data-focused, meaning the law enforcement agencies in the state who need the most resources are given priority.

Marietta Police Department is one of 17 agencies in the state to receive the grant this year. Law enforcement project manager with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, Scarlett Woods, says she does not foresee the grant coming to an end any time soon.

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