The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Issues Safety Warning After Several Drivers Cited For Exceeding 100 MPH On Highway 97 (Photo) - 03/20/26
Deschutes County, Ore. — The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to slow down after three recent incidents involving extremely high speeds—one of which included a driver traveling more than 115 miles per hour and arrested for DUII.
One deputy stopped two drivers on Thursday, March 19, for speeds of 102 and 109 mph on Highway 97 south of Bend. Another deputy observed a black passenger car weaving through northbound traffic near milepost 128 between Bend and Redmond last Saturday, March 14, at 6:15 p.m. Radar initially locked the vehicle at 115 miles per hour, with readings climbing into the 120s.
The 23‑year‑old Redmond man was arrested for DUII and reckless driving, and cited for speeding, driving without a license, and driving without insurance. His vehicle was impounded. A breath test measured his blood‑alcohol level at 0.25%, more than three times Oregon’s legal limit.
“These speeds are extremely dangerous and traveling over 100 miles per hour leaves drivers with almost no time to react,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. “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.”
Under Oregon law (ORS 811.109), driving more than 100 miles per hour carries a base fine of $1,150 and a mandatory 30‑ to 90‑day driver’s license suspension, even when impairment is not a factor.
Deschutes County 911 dispatchers receive numerous calls every day reporting aggressive or high‑speed driving across Central Oregon. Since February 20, the Sheriff’s Office has responded to a significant number of incidents involving suspected DUII and other traffic complaints, like excessive speeding and aggressive driving. These numbers reflect only the calls handled by the Sheriff’s Office and do not include other law enforcement partners in the region.
February 20 - March 20, 2026
- 114 suspected or confirmed DUII complaints
- 288 traffic‑related complaints
The Sheriff’s Office is currently utilizing a hybrid traffic team to enforce traffic laws like reckless and distracted driving, speeding, and DUII. Citizens can expect traffic enforcement to increase as we head into spring and summer.
“The number one complaint I hear from citizens when I’m out in the community is about traffic safety,” explained Sheriff Rupert. “Our main message is simple: Please slow down and be responsible. We’d much rather see you arrive a few minutes late than not at all.”
The Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens that responsible choices start with planning ahead. Whether it’s a designated driver, a taxi, or a ride-share service, having a sober ride can save lives. And please remember that speed and alcohol are a dangerous mix.
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