BROWN COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – In an effort to cut down OWI arrests, the Brown County Traffic Safety Commission is taking action.
They’ve conducted a new study, called “Place of Last Drink.”
Capt. Dan Sandberg of the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, tells FOX 11…
“We need a cultural change in our society when it comes to OWI’s, and people drinking and driving.”
Sandberg, who is the commission chairman, says eight different law enforcement agencies participated.
Each asking an OWI offender where they had their last drink.
“The big component is the over-serving part that the study is looking at.”
The “Place of Last Drink” results showed:
January-March there were 227 OWI arrests in Brown County
59-percent reported drinking at a bar or restaurant
A total of eight bars were mentioned by drunk drivers
Four in Green Bay
Two in Ashwaubenon
One in Wrightstown
One in Greenleaf
Sandberg says the results are only for the first quarter of what will be a year-long study.
“The biggest part of that is, as we get more information, the study is going to evolve. And hopefully, help us make those changes that are needed.”
The commission is working in partnership with the Brown County Tavern League.
Tavern League President, Don Mjelde….
“The numbers are fresh right now, it’s only the first quarter; there are other counties that have had a lot of bigger problems when they first unveiled the place of last drink study, so we look forward to seeing more of these, seeing if there is a problem.”
Sandberg says the goal is to bring awareness and provide training at those bars who may be over-serving.
“The educational component, a tavern owner can’t be there 24/7, and they might not even be aware of some of the issues that they’re having.”
Looking ahead, both agencies say their work has just begun.
“In order to succeed, we have to make sure people are being responsible, I’m excited to take the necessary steps,” Mjelde explained.
“We want to make them aware of the situation and work with us, so we can solve this problem,” Sandberg said.
The commission is scheduled to meet again in July.
