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Nearly 200 DWI Arrests Over Holiday Weekend: 'Too Many Minnesotans Rang In The New Year Behind Bars'

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota State Patrol says nearly 200 motorists were arrested for driving while intoxicated over the holiday weekend.

According to the patrol, 199 drivers statewide were arrested for DWI between 6 p.m. Friday and 6 a.m. Monday.

"Too many Minnesotans rang in the New Year behind bars after making a dangerous choice to get behind the wheel after drinking," the patrol said. "Drive sober, drive smart."

RELATED: Hennepin Co. Sheriff Dave Hutchinson Sentenced To 2 Years Probation After DWI Rollover Crash

In November, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety said "drugged driving incidents are on the rise," and that it's a growing concern for Minnesota law enforcement.

From 2016 to 2020, 26 people died in drunk driving-related crashes during the holiday DWI extra enforcement period, according to the DPS. One of every five deaths on Minnesota roads is related to drunken driving.

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