Boise police had a busy night of DUI enforcement as Downtown revelers celebrated Fat Tuesday.

Boise police booked 12 different drivers for DUI charges into the Ada County Jail between 6 p.m. Tuesday and 4 a.m. Wednesday.

Idaho State Police, who patrol Treasure Valley highways like Interstate 84, arrested nine drivers for DUI charges during the same time frame.

Boise police increased both foot and car patrols Downtown for Fat Tuesday — a Mardi Gras celebration marking the last day before Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and prayer before Easter for Christian denominations.

Since Fat Tuesday is such a popular and sometimes rowdy night of revelry at Downtown bars, Boise police increased staff to weekend level — eight patrol officers and at least seven foot or bicycle officers — to help reduce fights and drunk driving.

Boise police made 12 DUI arrests and 33 total arrests during the 2008 Fat Tuesday celebration.

Boise police officials have not yet compiled a total from 2009 but expect to release that information later Wednesday.

If you are one of these 12 people make sure to hire a DUI lawyer. Remember, you are innocent until prove guilty.

Source