Officers with the Bainbridge Island Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies in the region for the annual “Night of 1,000 Stars” impaired driving emphasis patrols later this month.

This year’s “Stars” patrol is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 14. Police will be on the lookout for impaired drivers on Bainbridge Island, in Kitsap County and across the state.

Other participating agencies include the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington State Patrol, and the Poulsbo, Bremerton and Port Orchard police departments.

“Night of 1,000 Stars” gets its name from the stars that symbolize the badge worn by an on-duty law enforcement officer. The patrols have been held during the holidays in Washington state for the past 22 years.

During the 2011 patrol, 259 drivers were contacted, resulting in 15 alcohol-related arrests.

The Kitsap County Traffic Safety Task Force said it will be dedicating the upcoming “Stars” patrol to Washington State Patrol Trooper Tony Radulescu, who was killed Feb. 23 during a traffic stop in the Gorst area of South Kitsap.

“We are extremely proud of Trooper Tony Radulescu for his great contributions toward public safety,” said Chief John Batiste of the Washington State Patrol.

“Tony believed, as the Washington State Patrol believes, that one person can make a difference in saving lives. He believed it and he exhibited his commitment to that belief through his dedication and work effort every day,” Batiste added. “It is a fitting tribute and we are especially honored that Tony will be recognized for his great work and sacrifice, by the community in which believed and served so proudly.”