NEWS RELEASE- Sheriff Oscar Ugarte Urges El Paso County Residents to Celebrate Super Bowl Weekend Responsibly: Don’t Drink and Drive
EL PASO, TEXAS – February 8, 2025 – As Super Bowl weekend approaches, El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte reminds residents to celebrate responsibly and avoid drinking and driving. “Super Bowl weekend is a time for friends and family to come together, but it’s also one of the most dangerous weekends for drunk driving,” said Sheriff Ugarte. “If you plan on drinking, plan on a safe way home. Don’t put your life or the lives of others at risk.”
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) carries severe consequences in Texas:
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First Offense: A fine up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, and a loss of driver’s license for up to a year.
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Second Offense: A fine up to $4,000, up to one year in jail, and a driver’s license suspension for up to two years.
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Third Offense: A fine up to $10,000, between two and ten years in prison, and a driver’s license suspension for up to two years.
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Intoxicated Manslaughter: A second-degree felony carrying a prison sentence of two to 20 years and a fine up to $10,000.
The EPCSO Patrol Division will be out in full force throughout the weekend, actively looking for impaired drivers. To help prevent DWIs, the District Attorney’s Office is offering $20 Uber vouchers to encourage residents to use a safe, sober ride home instead of risking a DWI arrest. “There’s no excuse for driving drunk when there are safe options available,” Sheriff Ugarte added. “Use a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation—just don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 911. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe.
