The City of Kent has announced the launch of a new traffic safety initiative that establishes a full-time dedicated DUI enforcement officer, part of a broader effort to reduce impaired driving and increase public safety on local roads.
The initiative is funded through a grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) and aligns with Washington’s Target Zero Goal to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries statewide.
A similar position is also being implemented in Aberdeen.
“At a time when fatal collisions caused by impaired drivers are at historically high levels in our state, the need for dedicated DUI enforcement is crucial,” said Kent Police Chief Rafael Padilla. “I am grateful to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission and the Target Zero Campaign for the grant funds that will allow our department to staff a full-time dedicated DUI officer position. This position significantly increases our capacity to remove impaired drivers from the roads before their actions result in tragedy.”
The DUI officer will focus not only on enforcement — identifying and arresting impaired drivers — but also on community outreach, education, and engagement in traffic safety coalitions. The goal is to deter dangerous behavior while building long-term public awareness around the consequences of driving under the influence.
According to WTSC data, alcohol- and drug-related collisions have been on the rise in recent years across Washington. Officials say proactive measures like these are essential for reversing that trend.
“This initiative represents a significant investment in public safety and is a critical step forward in the effort to prevent impaired driving and ultimately save lives,” said Edica Esqueda, WTSC Impaired Driving Program Manager.
The Kent Police Department expects the newly assigned officer to begin duties later this year.
