The DeKalb Police Department says it’s stepping up its patrols for the Super Bowl Weekend, which follows a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation for extra safety efforts.
Special patrols are aiming to crack down on alcohol and drug-impaired drivers, and seat belt use.
DeKalb Police Commander Steve Lekkas says there are some misconceptions regarding police.
"A lot of times people think that officers are out there hoping to write tickets or things like that, and that’s just not the case at all," he said. "We just want to make sure that everybody is being responsible. But we just assume if everybody is complying, then we don’t have to issue any tickets or make any arrests.”
Lekkas also says the department wants people to have a safe weekend.
"Have a good time and be responsible," he said. "I’d like everybody to enjoy their weekend and not have to worry about hearing about any problems or accidents, or anything like that. So no accidents and no DUI’s would be terrific.”
Lekkas urges people to designate a sober driver before going out, to buckle up, and to report drunk drivers to police.
Michelle Kittling-Brewer and Jessie Schlacks contributed to this report.