CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — Local law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to combat impaired driving this April, coinciding with National Alcohol Awareness Month and a renewed push for public education about the dangers of alcohol misuse.
The Milan Police Department announced it will conduct increased saturation patrols and DUI checkpoints throughout the month, targeting impaired drivers in an effort to prevent tragedies before they occur.
“Driving under the influence has dangerous consequences,” the department stated. “The Village of Milan reminds everyone to choose a designated driver if planning on consuming alcohol. Be responsible.”
The campaign comes on the heels of a serious crash in late March involving a repeat DUI offender. According to the Cibola County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a crash on March 28 involving Regan Walton, 44, who has a long history of impaired driving. Walton has five prior DUI convictions and a total of nine DUI-related arrests on record. He is now charged with two counts of vehicular homicide, one count of great bodily harm by vehicle, and aggravated DUI.
“Driving under the influence is not just a crime— it’s a danger to everyone on the road,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “We are committed to holding repeat offenders accountable and keeping our community safe.”
The timing of these developments adds local weight to National Alcohol Awareness Month, observed every April to educate the public about the health and societal impacts of alcohol misuse.
According to the New Mexico Department of Health, New Mexico continues to lead the nation in alcohol- related deaths. In 2021, the state’s alcohol-related death rate was more than twice the national average. Although the numbers improved slightly—falling from 2,274 deaths in 2021 to 1,896 in 2023—officials caution that the crisis is far from over.
“Alcohol affects your body and mind,” said Rebecca Neudecker, section manager for NMDOH’s Office of Alcohol Misuse Prevention. “This Alcohol Awareness Month, take the time to make informed decisions: drink in moderation or choose not to drink. Your health and well-being come first.”
April 10 marked National Alcohol Screening Day, which offers free and anonymous screenings to help individuals assess their drinking habits. State health officials also offer resources for those looking to cut down or quit, including the Connections App and the NMDOH Helpline (1-833SWNURSE).
Other tips for responsible drinking shared by health officials include:
• Eat before or while drinking to slow absorption
• Alternate between alcohol and water
• Know your personal limits and avoid peer pressure
• Avoid binge drinking (defined as 4+ drinks for women, 5+ for men in one sitting)
• Offer alcohol-free gatherings or non-alcoholic options
Residents are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911. “Your call could save a life,” the Sheriff’s Office emphasized.
As Cibola County grapples with the lasting effects of alcohol-related harm, local agencies hope that increased patrols, public education, and access to recovery tools will help reduce risk, prevent loss, and promote safer communities.