Nighthawks DUI Task Force Awarded Grant

It was good news last week for a specially-trained group of Georgia state troopers. The Nighthawks DUI Task Force will be able to continue the important job of keeping drunk drivers off the road thanks to a grant from The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. It is through the Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic program, HEAT, that the office was able to award the $2.37 million grant.

It is not only the task force that will benefit, but those working in the Administrative License Suspension program as well.

It was 11 years ago that the task force started focusing its patrols in the Atlanta metro area. The Nighthawks targeted those driving under the influence during peak hours. In 2009, the task force expanded to Athens, Savannah and Statesboro. Yet another team of Nighthawks began to cover Columbus and Macon in 2012. Thanks to the grant, the task force will be in operation through September of 2016.

According to law enforcement and government officials, the work the task force does is so important because alcohol-related traffic fatalities account for 25 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state.

Governor Nathan Deal urged citizens to, “Watch your speed, put down the phone and don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.” The governor also asked people to be sure that they have designated drivers on hand if they planned on drinking.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in Atlanta or the surrounding area, please call our offices today. Hawkins Spizman Fortas has attorneys experienced in the local court system who have been defending people in situations like yours for years. Call now or browse our website for more information about our firm.