Pella Police Urge Caution for St. Patrick's Day Celebrations

Extra enforcement to target impaired driving during holiday and spring break

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:55pm

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The Pella Police Department is warning residents to celebrate St. Patrick's Day responsibly, as extra traffic enforcement will be in place for the holiday and upcoming spring break. Captain Paul Haase says officers will be on the lookout for impaired driving and encourages partygoers to plan ahead if they plan to consume alcohol.

Why it matters

St. Patrick's Day is a popular time for celebrations that often involve alcohol consumption. The increased police presence aims to promote public safety and prevent drunk driving incidents during this high-risk period.

The details

As part of the Iowa Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau's Special Traffic Enforcement Program, Pella police officers will be joined by law enforcement across the region in conducting extra patrols and monitoring for traffic violations. The focus will be on identifying and stopping those driving under the influence of alcohol.

  • The extra traffic enforcement will continue through the St. Patrick's Day holiday.
  • Spring break is also occurring for many local and state students during this time period.

The players

Pella Police Department

The local law enforcement agency responsible for public safety in Pella, Iowa.

Captain Paul Haase

A commanding officer with the Pella Police Department who is overseeing the increased traffic enforcement efforts.

Iowa Governor's Traffic Safety Bureau

A state-level organization that coordinates traffic safety programs and initiatives across Iowa.

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What they’re saying

“Extra traffic enforcement will be in place for the St. Patrick's Day holiday and the upcoming spring break for many students locally and across the state.”

— Captain Paul Haase, Pella Police Department

“We will be searching for those driving under the influence, and he encourages party-goers to plan ahead if they plan to drink alcohol.”

— Captain Paul Haase, Pella Police Department

What’s next

The extra traffic enforcement will continue through the St. Patrick's Day holiday on March 17th.

The takeaway

This proactive approach by the Pella Police Department aims to promote public safety and prevent drunk driving incidents during the high-risk St. Patrick's Day celebrations and spring break period.