By Melissa Quinn

Alexandria motorists have been given fair warning not drink and drive on St. Patrick’s Day – authorities announced Friday they will kick off a roaming driving while intoxicated enforcement effort Sunday night.

The crackdown on driving while intoxicated is set to begin at 8 p.m. and continue until 6 a.m. Monday morning.

Motorists suspected of driving while intoxicated will be stopped and officers will check to ensure they do not have alcohol or drugs in their systems.

Those found driving under the influence face the maximum penalty of one year in jail, a $2,500 fine and 12-month suspension of driving privileges. Sentences may vary depending on the blood-alcohol content of the driver, said Police Chief Earl Cook.