Lorain County Law Enforcement Ramps Up St. Patrick's Day Patrols

Joint enforcement effort aims to deter impaired driving during holiday celebrations

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:51pm

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The Lorain County Sheriff's Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol have announced a joint enforcement campaign to increase patrols across the county over the St. Patrick's Day weekend. The effort, which runs from midnight Friday through 6 a.m. Wednesday, is focused on deterring impaired driving and keeping roads safe during the holiday celebrations.

Why it matters

St. Patrick's Day is known for increased alcohol consumption, which can lead to a rise in impaired driving incidents. This coordinated law enforcement effort is intended to proactively address public safety concerns and reduce the risk of traffic accidents and fatalities during the holiday period.

The details

Deputies and troopers will have an increased presence on both state routes and county roads throughout Lorain County. Last year's St. Patrick's Day enforcement led to 313 traffic stops and 11 arrests for operating a vehicle while impaired. Authorities are urging anyone planning to drink to make arrangements for safe transportation, such as using a designated driver, calling a ride, or utilizing other options.

  • The joint enforcement campaign runs from midnight Friday, March 14, 2026 through 6 a.m. Wednesday, March 19, 2026.
  • Last year's St. Patrick's Day weekend enforcement effort took place in 2025.

The players

Lorain County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency responsible for policing Lorain County, Ohio, which is partnering with the Ohio State Highway Patrol on the St. Patrick's Day enforcement campaign.

Ohio State Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling Ohio's roadways, which is collaborating with the Lorain County Sheriff's Office on the joint enforcement effort.

Jack Hall

The Lorain County Sheriff, who stated that the priority is ensuring residents celebrate the holiday safely and make responsible choices.

Ray Santiago

The Lieutenant and Elyria Post commander for the Ohio State Highway Patrol, who said that impaired driving puts everyone at risk and the collaboration is focused on reducing traffic fatalities and keeping Lorain County roadways safe.

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What they’re saying

“Our deputies and troopers will have an increased presence on the roadways throughout the weekend. Our priority is making sure residents celebrate the holiday safely and make responsible choices.”

— Jack Hall, Lorain County Sheriff

“Impaired driving puts everyone at risk. Through this collaboration, we can collectively focus on our shared mission of reducing traffic fatalities and keeping Lorain County roadways safe.”

— Ray Santiago, Lieutenant and Elyria Post commander, Ohio State Highway Patrol

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow any impaired driving suspects arrested during the enforcement campaign to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This coordinated law enforcement effort demonstrates the ongoing commitment to public safety and the importance of responsible behavior during holiday celebrations that involve increased alcohol consumption. By working together, the Lorain County Sheriff's Office and Ohio State Highway Patrol aim to deter impaired driving and prevent tragedies on the roads.