Traffic enforcement ramps up in Deschutes County after reckless driving incidents

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) —The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is increasing traffic enforcement after three recent incidents involving speeds more than 100 mph, including one arrest where a driver was clocked at 120 mph. Sheriff Ty Rupert is urging drivers to slow down and remain sober following a 23-year-old Redmond man's arrest for DUII and reckless driving on March 14.

The surge in enforcement comes as the Sheriff's Office reported 114 suspected or confirmed DUII complaints and 288 traffic-related complaints between Feb. 20 and March 20, 2026. These figures only reflect calls handled by the Sheriff's Office and do not include data from other regional law enforcement agencies.

The 23-year-old Redmond man was arrested on Saturday, March 14, at 6:15 p.m. near milepost 128 between Bend and Redmond. A deputy observed a black passenger car weaving through northbound traffic before radar locked the vehicle at 115 mph, with subsequent readings reaching the 120 mph range. The driver's blood-alcohol level was measured at 0.25%, more than three times the legal limit in Oregon. He was charged with DUII and reckless driving and cited for speeding, driving without a license and driving without insurance. His vehicle was impounded.

On Thursday, March 19, another deputy stopped two drivers on Highway 97 south of Bend. The drivers were traveling at speeds of 102 and 109 mph. Under Oregon law, ORS 811.109, driving more than 100 mph carries a mandatory driver's license suspension of 30 to 90 days and a base fine of $1,150, even if impairment is not a factor.

Rupert emphasized that high speeds significantly reduce a driver's ability to avoid collisions. "These speeds are extremely dangerous and traveling more than 100 miles per hour leaves drivers with almost no time to react," Rupert said. "We want everyone to get home safely. Slowing down, driving sober and staying alert dramatically reduces the chances of a serious or life-threatening crash."

The Sheriff's Office currently uses a hybrid traffic team to enforce laws related to speeding, distracted driving and DUII. Rupert noted that these efforts align with local concerns. "The number one complaint I hear from citizens when I'm out in the community is about traffic safety," Rupert said. These enforcement efforts target both aggressive driving and suspected impairment across the Central Oregon region.

Citizens can expect traffic enforcement to increase as the region moves into the spring and summer months. Rupert urged drivers to use ride-share services, taxis or designated drivers to ensure they have a sober ride. "Our main message is simple: Please slow down and be responsible," Rupert said. "We'd much rather see you arrive a few minutes late than not at all."