Deputies Will Be 'Out In Force' for Prom

Dorchester County Sheriff's Office is warning high school promgoers to behave within the confines of the law so that they can have a safe and memorable evening.

Fort Dorchester High and Summerville High's proms are April 13, and Ashley Ridge High's prom is April 20.

The Sheriff's Office released this statement:

While the goal is for everyone to have a safe and happy celebration, the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind both the teens and parents that, in coordination with other local and state agencies, the Dorchester County Traffic Enforcement Unit will be out in force to make sure that the roadways remain safe and that those who choose to drink and drive are not allowed to turn a night of celebration into a night of tragedy. Legally, no teen should be drinking or be in possession of alcohol but, realistically we know that this will not be the case. DUI enforcement will be a high priority.

In a collision, it is a proven fact that seatbelts and child restraints save lives and reduce injuries, South Carolina law makes their use mandatory.  Along with DUI enforcement, deputies will be looking for other violations that tend to be the causes in accidents and increase the chances of injury such as not using seatbelts, excessive speed, failure to yield the right of way, disregarding traffic signals and other dangerous violations.  

The goal of the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office is for everyone to have a safe and memorable prom with pictures to remind them of this special night, not a ticket, arrest record or worse, a tragedy, that could have been avoided, the consequences of which will follow a person the rest of their lives.