MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. – The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) is launching a focused Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) enforcement operation from December 10, 2025, through January 1, 2026. 

Patrol deputies will increase enforcement efforts and visibility across the county to identify and arrest impaired or dangerous drivers.  

Enforcement will be concentrated during peak holiday travel and late‑night hours when impaired driving incidents typically rise. The goal is prevention and enforcement. 

“Impaired driving is one of the most preventable threats on our roads,” said Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. “Our deputies will be using these targeted enforcement operations to keep dangerous drivers off our streets and to ensure everyone in Multnomah County can travel safely.”  

Every day, about 34 people in the United States die in drunk‑driving crashes, which equates to one death every 42 minutes, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data. 

MCSO’s holiday enforcement efforts are intended to reduce preventable crashes, injuries, and traffic-related deaths by deterring drivers from impaired driving. 

Intoxicants can include alcohol, inhalants, illegal drugs, prescription and over-the-counter medications, and marijuana. 

Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of driving under the influence of intoxicants this holiday season: 

• Plan ahead: Designate a sober driver before using intoxicants. Use a taxi, rideshare, or public transit if you’re under the influence.   
• Know your limits: Under Oregon law, drivers can still be prosecuted even if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is below .08%. MCSO encourages community members to simply avoid operating a motor vehicle any time after consuming intoxicants – even if you feel ‘fine.’ 
• Avoid mixing alcohol with prescription or over‑the‑counter medications that can cause drowsiness or interact with alcohol. 
• Leave your car keys with a trusted person if you’re unsure whether you’re safe to drive. 
• Host responsibly: Offer non-alcoholic options and arrange rides for guests who have been using intoxicants.   

MCSO encourages residents to make safe choices to avoid penalties and causing injury or death. Community members should always call 9-1-1 to report suspected impaired or dangerous drivers.