PCAO seeing an alarming increase in the number of Felony DUIs

The Pinal County Attorney's Office (PCAO) has announced the launch of a new safe driving campaign aimed at addressing a worrying increase in Felony Driving Under the Influence (DUI) cases across the county. The campaign, which features the slogan "Drive Drunk or High, People Might Die," will be promoted at various events, on community handouts, and in future messaging.

County Attorney Kent Volkmer expressed concern over the rising number of individuals getting behind the wheel while impaired, stating, "A single impaired driver puts other families at risk and it's not acceptable." In 2022, PCAO charged 243 Felony DUI cases, representing a 75% increase from 2021. So far in 2023, the PCAO has charged over 115 Felony DUIs, indicating that this year's total will likely surpass last year's.

The campaign's objective is to raise awareness and encourage individuals to reconsider their decisions before driving under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, or prescription medication. Volkmer emphasized the potentially dire consequences of driving while impaired, saying, "Please realize just one bad decision could be your last, or it could kill someone else."

Law enforcement has also noted a shift in DUI citations, with drug-related offenses now outnumbering those related to alcohol. As the Country Thunder Music Festival in Florence approaches, the Pinal County Attorney's Office urges everyone, particularly festival attendees, to designate a sober driver and prioritize safety on the roads.