Memorial Day weekend turned into a busy time for law enforcement in Flagler County, Florida, as 18 people were arrested during the three-day break. The charges mainly involved driving under the influence (DUI), illegal drug possession, and other alcohol-related violations. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) confirmed that these arrests were part of their annual holiday safety operation aimed at curbing reckless behavior during the long weekend.
Sheriff Rick Staly said the department had already anticipated an uptick in risky behavior due to the combination of holiday celebrations, parties, and beach crowds. Extra patrols were deployed across the county, especially near popular hangout spots and major roadways. The goal was simple—prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities during the festive weekend.
Out of the 18 arrested individuals, several were charged with DUIs, with some cases involving drivers under the influence of both alcohol and drugs. In one incident, a man was caught weaving between lanes near Palm Coast Parkway and showed signs of intoxication. After being pulled over, deputies reported that he failed multiple sobriety tests and had a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit.
Other arrests involved drug-related offenses. One woman was found with methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in her vehicle during a traffic stop. In a separate case, a man was arrested for possessing fentanyl, a dangerous and often deadly synthetic opioid. Deputies say the man tried to hide the drugs under his car seat when he was stopped for a broken taillight.
Several people were also charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and driving without a valid license. According to the FCSO, one woman became aggressive after being stopped at a roadside checkpoint and attempted to flee the scene. She was later found hiding in a wooded area and taken into custody.
Law enforcement officers said that most of the incidents took place late at night or in the early morning hours—typical times when DUI cases spike. Extra DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols were part of the department’s strategy, and officers were stationed near beaches, parks, and nightlife areas throughout the weekend.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that these arrests were not just about numbers—they reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to public safety. Sheriff Staly said in a statement, “Memorial Day is a time to honor those who gave their lives for our country, but unfortunately, some individuals choose to act recklessly. We made 18 arrests to protect the residents and visitors of Flagler County. If you drink and drive or deal drugs, you will go to jail in Flagler County.”
Alongside the arrests, deputies also issued multiple citations for speeding, open container violations, and seatbelt infractions. In total, more than 200 traffic stops were made over the weekend as part of the enhanced enforcement effort.
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office also worked in coordination with the Florida Highway Patrol and other local agencies to ensure coverage across the region. Air patrols, canine units, and marine deputies were also part of the multi-agency response, especially given the high volume of people visiting Flagler Beach and surrounding areas.
Residents have shown mixed reactions on social media, with many thanking law enforcement for keeping the roads safe, while others criticized what they called overly aggressive tactics. Still, most agree that safety is the priority, especially during high-traffic holidays like Memorial Day.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Memorial Day weekend is consistently one of the most dangerous travel periods in the state. In 2023, Florida reported over 400 DUI-related arrests statewide during the same weekend, making it clear why local agencies like FCSO are stepping up enforcement.
As summer begins, law enforcement says they plan to continue targeted patrols during other upcoming holidays such as the Fourth of July. The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging all residents and visitors to plan ahead, use designated drivers, or rely on ride-sharing services to avoid preventable tragedies.
For those charged over the weekend, court dates have been scheduled in the coming weeks. Some individuals remain in custody due to prior warrants or because of the severity of their charges.
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