23/10/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
10/22/26
Chief Deputy Ben Franklin
309 937 3902
[email protected]
Impaired driving is scary: The Henry County Sheriff’s Office cracks down on drunk, drugged driving
Remember, It’s Not a Game
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is urging motorists to commit to sober driving, buckling up and following traffic laws this Halloween, when children and their families will be walking through neighborhoods after dark in search of candy and spooky fun. If you'll be out enjoying Halloween festivities, make sure you have a safe, sober ride home. Remember — “It’s Not a Game.”
“Alcohol and cannabis impair your ability to drive safely,” said Sheriff Josh Verscheure. “That’s why it’s crucial to plan how you’ll get home before you head out. And don’t forget to wear your seat belt every trip, every time. Planning ahead, driving sober and buckling up will help keep you and others safe.”
Driving while impaired is never acceptable. Remember: DUIs are not limited to alcohol-related offenses. Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or drugs is illegal — period. While cannabis may be legal for adults, if you drive high, you’ll still get a DUI. Additionally, all vehicle occupants must wear their seat belts or risk a ticket.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to follow these simple tips to keep our roads safe this Halloween:
· Plan a safe way to get home before attending any party.
· Designate a sober driver, take public transportation, use a ride-sharing service or call a sober friend or family member for a ride.
· Walking while impaired can be just as dangerous as driving. Make sure you have a sober friend to walk you home if needed.
· Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers and crashes.
· If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement as soon as it’s safe to do so.
· If you see someone who is impaired and about to drive, take their keys and help them find a safe way home.
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns, along with increased traffic enforcement, are funded by federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT.
These efforts are supported by the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies across the state. The campaigns are reinforced by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” initiative spotlighting safe driving and highway safety across Illinois.
