IRVING, Tex. – Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Missouri has released a statement regarding alleged drunk driving by two Missouri sheriffs and a county prosector.
“MADD is outraged to learn that for the third time in the past two months a Missouri law enforcement leader sworn to uphold the law and protect their community has been stopped for suspicion of operating a vehicle while impaired.
“The arrest of Sunset Hills Police Chief Stephen Dodge for suspicion of operating a boat while impaired June 17 at Lake of the Ozarks comes amid allegations that Hazelwood Police Chief Gregg Hall drove impaired on May 28 and was taken home by then-O’Fallon police Chief John Neske instead of being arrested.
“On July July 1, St. Charles County Missouri Prosecutor Tim Lohmar, the chief law enforcement officer of the county, was arrested on suspicion of DWI near the Lake of the Ozarks. The arrest for boating under the influence shows exactly why MADD chose Lake of the Ozarks for our first-ever Boating Under the Influence campaign ahead of Memorial Day weekend.”
“Boating under the influence IS driving under the influence. Thankfully, no one was injured or killed in these three cases, and MADD thanks the law enforcement officers who did their jobs to stop individuals suspected of driving impaired.”
“Drunk driving and drunk boating are crimes that are 100 percent preventable. Everyone found to have operated a boat or car while impaired must be held accountable. No exceptions and no excuses. MADD is monitoring these cases and reminds everyone to plan ahead when plans include alcohol. Designate a non-drinking driver, call a taxi or rideshare or take public transportation every time plans include alcohol. Never drive or operate a boat while impaired.”
About Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Founded in 1980 by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking. MADD has helped to save more than 400,000 lives, reduce drunk driving deaths by more than 50% and promote designating a non-drinking driver. MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving® calls for law enforcement support, ignition interlocks for all offenders and advanced vehicle technology. MADD has provided supportive services to nearly one million drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge through local victim advocates and the 24-Hour Victim Help Line 1-877-MADD-HELP. Visit www.madd.org or call 1-877-ASK-MADD.