MADD report reveals DUI trends in Yakima County, calls for stronger action

Yakima, Washington. New data from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) reveals alarming trends in DUI cases in Yakima County, prompting calls for tougher enforcement and greater community involvement. According to MADD’s latest court monitoring report, the county has seen an increase in repeat offenders, DUI arrests of minors and high blood alcohol content (BAC) cases.

MADD representative Molly Johnston noted that repeat DUI offenders are sometimes charged as if it were their first offense, even after multiple convictions.

“It’s an ongoing cycle, and it’s almost silly to believe that someone with multiple DUIs, but then goes a long period of time without one and gets another one hasn’t been drinking and driving during that time,” Johnston said. “It’s likely they weren’t caught during that time.”

Yakima County ranks second in the state in DUI arrests, averaging three to five per day. Johnston emphasized the need for stronger legal consequences and community action to address the problem. MADD asks residents to get involved through educational programs and volunteer efforts aimed at reducing impaired driving.

For more information about MADD’s programs or to volunteer, visit their website.