City of Tampa, FL

10/30/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/30/2026 09:32

Tampa Police Begin Enhanced DUI Patrols Leading Into Halloween

Tampa Police Begin Enhanced DUI Patrols Leading Into Halloween

Posted
10/30/2026

TAMPA, FL. (October 30, 2026) - - Overnight, leading into Halloween weekend, members of the Tampa Police Department DUI Unit began enhanced DUI patrols throughout the city, including an Underage Drinking Operation in Downtown Tampa.

As a result of the Underage Enforcement Operation, 14 individuals were referred to an arrest diversion program. The intent of these efforts is not simply to penalize individuals, but to prevent potentially dangerous situations before they escalate.

"As you make plans to celebrate, remember that your decisions have consequences. Engaging in illegal activity, regardless of how minor it may seem, can have a lasting impact," said Acting Chief Brett Owen. "Even underage drinking can lead to dangerous situations, serious legal consequences, and potential harm to yourself or others."

The enhanced patrols over the weekend are part of the department's commitment to ensuring the city remains safe. Beginning tonight, October 30th, enhanced patrols will be expanded throughout neighborhoods and popular entertainment districts citywide.

Additional officers will be deployed in uniform and plainclothes capacity with an emphasis on impaired driving and deterring reckless behavior to enhance public safety.

The Tampa Police Department encourages everyone to have a plan and celebrate responsibly. Most importantly, if you see something, say something. Suspicious behaviors should be reported to law enforcement promptly. In an emergency, call 911 or alert the nearest officer. For non-emergencies, call 813-231-6130.

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City of Tampa, FL published this content on October 30, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 30, 2026 at 15:32 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]