Once again, the state of Arizona is cracking down hard on DUI offenders. Both Pima County and Nogales have received grants to help combat underage drinking and driving.

Pima County alone received more than $180,000 to implement more DUI checkpoints, track down drivers with outstanding DUI warrants, and conduct liquor license sweeps. The city of Nogales received $70,000 to do the same thing.

One of the areas DUI enforcement officers are hoping to target most is underage drinkers returning to the United States from Mexico. Because the drinking age in Mexico is 18, many young people travel across the border to drink and party, and then drive back into the U.S. In fact, people as young as 16 are going across the border because bars in Mexico don’t often ask for I.D.

Let’s just say it’s not a good idea for any young person to go across the border to drink. Not only is it illegal to drink and drive once you’ve re-entered the U.S., but due to the drug war raging in Northern Mexico it’s unsafe for American tourists of any age. That being said, if you and your friends decide to drink in Mexico, be sure to designate a sober driver. Once you enter Arizona, if you’re caught driving and driving you will be arrested and charged with DUI. Arizona has a very strict underage DUI policy, so strict in fact that having any detectable amount of alcohol in your system, even .01%, can lead to your arrest.

Our advice? If you’re under 21 be careful! The police are looking for people like you and will not hesitate to place you under arrest. In the event that you are arrested for underage drunk driving, you can contact the Knowles Law Firm to speak with an experienced Phoenix DUI attorney about your charges.