The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is cracking down  on drunk driving this fourth of July holiday weekend.

Troopers are focusing on areas that are high-risk and will patrol those areas at times when alcohol related crashes are most frequent.

State statistics show every 20 minutes a person is killed or hurt in an alcohol-related crash.

The Fourth of July crackdown is annual effort but comes as DPS recently began a surge along the Texas-Mexico border.

The operation is meant to combat crime and mexican cartels.

It’s expected to last through the end of this year.

DPS is remaing tight-lipped about how the allocated $1.3 million  a week is being spent during the surge but a DPS official gave a firm warning to Valley residents regarding the DWI crackdown.

“Dont drink and drive because you will be, its a $2,000 fine and a 180 days in jail and you can loose your license for up to a year,” DPS spokesman Sgt. Johnny Hernandez said.

During last years DWI crackdown more than a thousand DWI suspects were arrested and DPS troopers handed out more than 15,000 speeding tickets.

Local police departments are also participating in this holiday DWI crackdown.

The DWI patrols have already started and will last through July 7th.

Franke, Realtors wishes all of its guests a safe and memorable stay on South Padre Island. We encourage everyone to drive with care while on the roads and always drink responsibly. Have a happy and safe Fourth of July Weekend!!!