SPD: driving under the influence is the greatest threat to Sheridan’s residents

According to Sheridan Police Department Lieutenant Tom Ringley, the greatest threat to the residents of Sheridan is individuals driving under the influence. 

The SPD trains to handle civil unrest, active shooters and even chemical spills along the railway, but the prevalence of drivers under the influence has proven to be the greater threat to Sheridan residents.

According to SPD Sergeant Kelly Waugh, Wyoming has the highest DUI death rate in the U.S. with 7.6 fatalities per 100,000 people, followed by South Dakota with 6.23 fatalities per 100,000 people.

All of these deaths and the property damage that also occurs are 100% preventable, Ringley said. The frequency of the DUI offences in the community and the risk they pose has made DUI prevention the top priority for law enforcement in Sheridan. 

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Ringley commented on the severity of the offences. 

Ringley told listeners that the SPD averaged 212 DUI arrests for 2016 through 2019. In 2020, Sheridan officers made 202 DUI arrests and responded to 18 DUI related crashes. 

To prevent DUIs, Ringley said residents and visitors who have consumed too much alcohol can take advantage of the Safe Rides Home Program. This program allows the individual to contact their bartender or server and receive a voucher to split the cost of a taxi ride home. Patrons can also plan ahead and designate a sober driver to transport them home safely.