Multi-Agency Effort Targets Impaired Driving in Rutherford County

The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office partnered with multiple agencies this week for the “Hands Across the Border” event, which took place along the North Carolina and South Carolina line. The effort coincided with the North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program 2025 Labor Day Booze It & Lose It Campaign.

The initiative brought together law enforcement from both states, creating a strong presence aimed at reducing impaired driving. The joint operation took place on August 25, 2025, and produced the following results in Rutherford County:

• Traffic Violations – 28

• DWI Investigations – 1

• Drug Violations – 3

• Marijuana Seized – 9 grams

  
  

These numbers do not include additional charges made by agencies in South Carolina.

Sheriff Aaron Ellenburg expressed his appreciation to all agencies involved, including Rutherford County Emergency Management, Rutherford County Communications, Rutherfordton Police Department, Spindale Police Department, Lake Lure Police Department, Forest City Police Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol, South Carolina Highway Patrol, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.