Even though national data shows that Alabama ranks as one of the lowest states for number of DUI arrests, local police say that number is changing.

Alabama ranks as one of the lowest states for driving under the influence arrests.

However, police from several cities in the Wiregrass say the number of arrests they are making is increasing in the Circle City.

Dothan Police have increased the number of DUI arrests. Last year, they had a total of 221. This year, they've already made 77 arrests.

Dothan Police Major Nicholas Monday said, “They may be under the influence of something other than alcohol. They may be under the influence of marijuana, a lot of different things they can be under the influence. But, the law says you cannot operate a vehicle in Alabama if you are under the influence.”

Captain Mike Lolley of the Enterprise Police Department says the numbers of DUI arrests in the City of Progress are up. Last year, January through April, they arrested five people. This year, for the same time frame, they've made nine arrests.

Ozark Police say last year, they made a total of three DUI arrests between January and April. This year, during the same time frame, they have arrested 18 people.

Ozark Police Deputy Chief Myron Williams said, “We've had a significant increase in the number of officers we have on the road. Primarily, I believe we've almost doubled the number of patrol officers or street officers that we have out at any one time particularly at night and on the weekends.”

Chief Williams says they have seen a significant increase in the number of underage drinkers on the road.

They're also arresting more individuals for public intoxication because they pose a danger to other citizens and other drivers.

A first drunk driving offense carries is a misdemeanor charge and you can lose your license for up to 90 days.