Holiday DWI Enforcement in Galveston, Texas

Galveston County law enforcement has announced a Holiday DWI Step-Up Enforcement period running from December 20, 2025 through January 1, 2026. During this time, deputies increase patrols, traffic stops, and DWI investigations across Galveston and surrounding areas. Texas DWI penalties are severe, even for first-time offenders, and holiday enforcement periods lead to a sharp rise in arrests. Understanding how these patrols work and knowing your rights can make a critical difference if you are stopped or arrested.

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Increased DWI Patrols During the 2025 Holiday Season

The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed a holiday DWI enforcement surge covering Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. These operations are designed to deter impaired driving, but they also result in a significant increase in traffic stops and arrests across Galveston, Texas.

During this enforcement window, deputies focus on:

• Nighttime and late-evening patrols

• High-traffic corridors and beach access roads

• Bars, restaurants, and event-heavy areas

• Minor traffic violations used as pretexts for stops

Even drivers who believe they are under the legal limit can find themselves pulled over and investigated for DWI.

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Why Holiday DWI Enforcement Leads to More Arrests

Holiday patrols differ from routine enforcement. Officers are specifically assigned to look for signs of impairment, and departments often receive state or federal funding that encourages aggressive policing during these dates.

Common reasons drivers are stopped during holiday DWI patrols include:

• Rolling stops or failure to signal

• Driving slightly below or above the speed limit

• Lane drifting or wide turns

• Equipment issues such as license plate lights

Once a stop occurs, officers may begin a DWI investigation even without clear evidence of intoxication.

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Texas DWI Laws Apply Strictly During Step-Up Periods

Texas law does not change during holiday enforcement, but officer discretion and arrest rates do. A driver can be arrested for DWI in Galveston if law enforcement believes alcohol or drugs affected normal mental or physical faculties, even without a breath or blood test result.

Under Texas law:

• 0.08% BAC is not required for arrest

• Refusing field sobriety tests is legal

• Breath tests are optional

• Blood warrants are frequently sought during holidays

Many holiday DWI arrests rely heavily on officer observations rather than scientific evidence.

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Penalties for a DWI Arrest in Galveston, Texas

A DWI arrest during the holiday enforcement period carries the same penalties as any other DWI, including:

First-Offense DWI

• Up to 180 days in jail

• Fines up to $2,000

• License suspension up to one year

• Annual surcharge and ignition interlock risk

Second-Offense DWI

• Up to one year in jail

• Fines up to $4,000

• Mandatory license suspension

• Longer probation and alcohol programs

DWI With Enhancements

• High BAC allegations

• Child passenger charges

• Accident involvement

Holiday arrests often escalate quickly due to crowded jails, delayed magistrate hearings, and aggressive charging decisions.

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Common Problems With Holiday DWI Arrests

Holiday DWI cases frequently involve procedural and evidentiary issues, including:

• Poorly administered field sobriety tests

• Inaccurate officer reports

• Faulty breath testing equipment

• Delayed or improperly handled blood draws

• Stops lacking reasonable suspicion

These issues can form the foundation of a strong DWI defense when reviewed carefully.

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What to Do If You Are Stopped During Holiday DWI Patrols

If you are stopped during the Galveston holiday enforcement period:

• Remain polite and calm

• Provide identification when requested

• You may decline field sobriety tests

• You may refuse a breath test

• Do not argue roadside

• Request an attorney if arrested

Everything said or done during the stop may later be used in court.

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How a Galveston DWI Attorney Can Help

A DWI arrest does not mean a conviction. An experienced Galveston DWI attorney can:

• Review dash cam and body cam footage

• Challenge the legality of the traffic stop

• Examine breath or blood testing procedures

• Identify constitutional violations

• Seek charge reductions or dismissals

• Protect your driver’s license

Early legal action is especially important after a holiday arrest, when administrative deadlines move quickly.

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Holiday Arrests Move Fast in Galveston Courts

After a DWI arrest, drivers face two separate proceedings:

• The criminal case

• The Administrative License Revocation process

Missing deadlines can result in automatic license suspension even before a court appearance. Acting quickly protects both freedom and driving privileges.

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Speak With a Trusted Galveston DWI Attorney Today

If you were arrested during the Holiday DWI Step-Up Enforcement period from December 20, 2025 through January 1, 2026, do not wait to protect yourself. Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC provides skilled, aggressive, and client-focused defense for DWI charges across Galveston, Texas. Contact the firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn how your case can be challenged.