Lane County, OR – Drivers across Lane County may see increased patrols this holiday season as sheriff’s deputies work targeted DUI enforcement through New Year’s Day, officials said.
According to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, the agency does not have a dedicated traffic or DUI enforcement team due to funding limitations. However, from December through January 1, deputies are conducting state grant-funded overtime patrols focused on impaired driving during the busy holiday travel period.
The enforcement effort comes after several recent DUII arrests tied to dangerous driving behavior.
On Saturday, December 21, at about 2 a.m., a deputy leaving the downtown office observed a vehicle run a red light at East 7th Avenue and Oak Street in Eugene. According to deputies, the driver, Ricardo Corona Garibay, 26, of Salem, allegedly showed signs of impairment and was arrested for DUII following an investigation.
Two days later, on Monday, December 23, around 5:30 p.m., a caller reported a vehicle swerving into oncoming traffic on Jasper Road near Wallace Creek. Deputies say the driver failed to stop, went off the roadway, struck a power pole, and continued driving briefly in a ditch. The driver, James P. Littlebear Simmons, 63, of Medford, was allegedly impaired and was arrested for DUII.
Later that evening, around 7 p.m., deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash on Lawrence Road involving damaged mailboxes. The driver continued driving and was followed by a witness. Deputies located the vehicle stopped on Clear Lake Road and arrested Ethan David Wood, 30, of Springfield, for DUII and Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver – Property Damage, according to authorities.
The sheriff’s office urges residents to plan sober rides, avoid driving after drinking or drug use, wear seatbelts, and ensure guests leave holiday gatherings safely.
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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