Eugene, OR – Holiday travelers across Lane County will see stepped-up DUII enforcement beginning today as deputies work overtime through January 1 in an effort to reduce impaired driving crashes.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, the agency does not have a dedicated DUI enforcement unit, but grant funding will allow targeted patrols on state roadways during the busy travel period. Deputies are urging residents to plan safe rides home, designate sober drivers, and avoid driving under any amount of alcohol or drug impairment.
The enhanced enforcement comes after two recent DUII-related crashes in Lane County. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the first incident occurred on Saturday, December 5 at 6 p.m., when a pickup truck allegedly crashed into a utility pole on Prairie Road. Deputies reported that the driver, Kevin Bryan Barthold, 23, of Port Orford, showed signs of impairment. After further investigation, Barthold was arrested for DUII.
A second crash followed on Sunday, December 6 at about 9:30 p.m. Deputies responded to a report of a vehicle that allegedly crashed off London Road near Latham Road, continued through a resident’s yard, and drove back onto the roadway. A witness followed the vehicle to a nearby residence, where deputies contacted the driver, Erika Rose Kennington, 47, of Cottage Grove. According to deputies, Kennington displayed signs of impairment and was arrested for DUII after further investigation.
Lane County officials are urging drivers to practice caution during the holiday season and to expect increased patrols on major routes. The Sheriff’s Office also reminds residents to wear seatbelts and ensure that all holiday gatherings include a sober ride plan.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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