Early Police Department Chief David Mercer said his department is joining forces with TxDot and other law enforcement agencies across Texas in the impaired Driver Mobilization (IDM) campaign. The purpose of the IDM campaign is to reduce the number of DWI related crashes, injuries and fatalities through the use of dedicated DWI patrols.

Alcohol related traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities continue to occur on the roadways of Brown County and throughout Texas. The Early Police Department is a no refusal agency. If someone refuses a blood test, a search warrant will be applied for before a judge and the blood sample will be taken. The IDM period began Sunday and will end July 5, where extra officers will be patrolling the streets.

The average 180 lbs person becomes impaired after 2-3 drinks and intoxicated or above 0.08 after 3-4 drinks. DWI is a serious crime and totally preventable. A first-time conviction along with bail, legal fees, court appearances, court ordered classes, insurance increases and other expenses can total around $17,000.