New Dedicated DUI Enforcement: Cities of Kent and Aberdeen Establish Dedicated DUI Officers to Reduce Impaired Driving

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ABERDEEN/KENT, WA – The cities of Aberdeen and Kent are proud to announce a new traffic safety initiative that will add a full-time law enforcement officer in each city. The officers will focus on removing impaired drivers from local roads and increasing public awareness of the risks of impaired driving.
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) provides grant funds to build local law enforcement capacity and supports Washington’s Target Zero Goal to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

“At a time when fatal collisions caused by impaired drivers are at historically high levels in our state, the need for dedicated DUI enforcement is crucial,” said Chief Rafael Padilla from Kent Police Department (KPD). “I am grateful to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and the Target Zero Campaign for the grant funds that will allow our department to staff a fulltime dedicated DUI Officer position. This position significantly increases our capacity to remove impaired drivers from the roads before their actions result in tragedy.”

The newly established DUI officer positions will focus on identifying and processing impaired drivers, while also engaging in community outreach and education. Through high-visibility enforcement, coalition participation, public messaging, and leadership in traffic safety efforts, the officers will serve as a visible and proactive resource in the community.

“We are honored to be selected as one of the recipients of a dedicated DUI enforcement grant,” remarked Commander Steve Timmons from the Aberdeen Police Department. “Having a dedicated DUI enforcement officer is vital to enhancing public safety by deterring impaired driving and reducing alcohol-related crashes. Taking a proactive
approach through increased enforcement and community education is essential to keeping our roads and community safe.”

Funding a full-time officer in each city will address a troubling rise in serious injury and fatal collisions related to alcohol and drug impairment. The increased visibility of enforcement efforts promotes greater accountability and safety across both communities.

“This initiative represents a significant investment in public safety and is a critical step forward in the effort to prevent impaired driving and ultimately save lives,” said WTSC Impaired Driving Program Manager, Edica Esqueda.