ST. BERNARD PARISH, La. — St. Bernard Parish Sheriff James Pohlmann is wishing residents a safe and happy holiday season while reminding them of the Sheriff's Office's free Holiday Ride Home program.
Running from Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28, through Jan. 2, the program provides a safe ride home to those who have been drinking during the holiday season.
Residents can call the Sheriff’s Office at (504) 271-2501 to request a ride, no questions asked.
A deputy will transport individuals to their homes in St. Bernard Parish or to a Sheriff's substation if they reside outside the parish. There, they can arrange for a friend or family member to pick them up.
The initiative, which aims to reduce impaired driving and prevent traffic-related injuries, was first introduced in 1986 and was the first such program in the New Orleans area. On average, about two dozen people take advantage of the service each year.
"We want to make it as simple as possible for people to get home safely," said Sheriff Pohlmann. "It could save your life or someone else's."
Pohlmann emphasized that the program is intended to help those who are impaired by alcohol or other substances get home safely. However, riders will not be taken to bars, nightclubs, or other parties.
"We don’t want to arrest you for driving while intoxicated or impaired," Pohlmann said. "If you're impaired, don’t drive—just call us, and we’ll take you home."
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