Over 1,000 people receive rides New Year’s Eve; only 11 alcohol-related arrests made.

LUDINGTON — Over 1,000 people (and one dog) were transported during the New year’s Eve Drive Safe, Drive Sober campaign.

“The 2015 Drive Safe, Drive Sober campaign was a great success again this year making sure this New Year’s Eve celebration was a safe and enjoyable one,” said Ludington Police Chief Mark Barnett. “This success was due to the combined efforts of Abrahamson’s Towing, Quinn’s Tires & Tows, Oceana Auto, Fier’s Towing & Recovery and the Ludington Mass Transportation Authority.”

A total of 1,026 individuals (plus one dog) were transported to and from their holiday destinations, rather than driving themselves this year, and eight of those individuals had their vehicles towed free of charge.  

There were no reported traffic crashes involving injuries.  A total of four property damage crashes were reported during this year’s celebration.  

Barnett said a review of Mason County law enforcement agencies’ activity reveals there were two arrests for operating while intoxicated (O.W.I.), nine other arrests involving alcohol, four assault arrests and four other warrant arrests. Only one traffic citation was issued.  

“Thanks to the combined efforts and resources of Abrahamson’s Towing, Quinn’s Tires & Tows, Oceana Auto, Ludington Mass Transportation Authority, Mothers Against Drunk Driving of Mason County, SADD, Ludington Beverage Co. Inc., several Ludington-Mason County area businesses, and Mason County Law Enforcement, the 2015 New Year’s Eve was another safe and enjoyable Holiday.”

Barnett said an estimated 6,500 people attended the downtwon Ludington New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.