Law enforcement in Downtown Charleston and surrounding areas like Mount Pleasant and Folly Road is intensifying patrols, DUI checkpoints, and traffic stops for New Year’s Eve 2025 into 2026. The focus remains on preventing impaired driving, with saturation patrols proven effective in past holidays.
South Carolina holds the unfortunate top spot for drunk driving per NHTSA data, and 2024’s holiday period (Dec 29–Jan 1) saw 871 crashes, 9 fatalities—4 from impaired drivers—according to the SC Department of Public Safety.
Enforcement Details
- Charleston PD: Checkpoint on Folly Road; traffic division active day, evening, and overnight.
- Mount Pleasant PD: Saturation patrols supporting “Sober or Slammer” campaign.
- Broader Lowcountry: Extra patrols to handle increased road traffic.
Officers like Sgt. Ryan Culnon and Sgt. Chris Stinson emphasize pre-planning transportation, noting abundant rideshare options to avoid DUIs and jail time.
Safety Tips from Authorities
- Plan rideshare, designated driver, or public transit before heading out.
- Stay aware of surroundings and travel in groups.
- No excuses with modern options—drive sober or get pulled over.
This push aligns with ongoing civic safety priorities in the Southeast, especially as your region gears up for holiday crowds. Celebrating responsibly keeps the festivities fatality-free. Any specific Lowcountry events or routes you’re planning for NYE?
