Butte News

Sheriff says Butte's St. Patty's Day was uneventful compared to past years

Posted: Mar 18, 2013 7:41 PM by MTN News
Updated: Mar 19, 2013 7:08 AM

St. Patrick's Day was fairly calm, according to Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff Ed Lester.

Butte Law Enforcement officers made 55 arrests starting Friday through Monday morning. This is a record low for Butte, according to Lester. In the past, law enforcement has made more than 100 arrests in a single day.

Officers issued a total of 17 DUI's during the festivities. The cold weather may have prompted people to drive, Lester said. Three minors in possession were issued.

Authorities were on foot all weekend. Lester believes foot patrols greatly reduced the amount of disorderly conduct that's typically seen on St. Patrick's Day.

At least 20 officers were on duty, however many were sent home because attendance this year was markedly down, Lester said.

Next year, Lester hopes to continue with the same man power. It's important for people to see his officers on the streets patrolling on foot, he said.

"When we see people arguing or getting ready to start a fight, our officers are able to get there quicker," Lester said. "When we have those foot patrols out and a lot of times rather than making arrests, we can just send them both on their way."

Lester said the weekend was uneventful given it was St. Patrick's Day.