Campbell Co., VA - About a thousand people are expected at this year's Fun Float festival in Campbell County next month. And among them will be more law enforcement officers than ever before.

Authorities are hoping that by cracking down on alcohol consumption, they can prevent another deadly accident on the Staunton River.

The festival turned tragic last year after a man fell out of his canoe in the middle of the eight-mile-float from Long Island to Brookneal.  Crews later found the body of 32-year-old Jerry Conner Jr. downstream. Deputies believe that alcohol consumption led to his drowning.

So this year, they're going to strictly enforce all of the rules. There will be close to 30 officers working at the festival. They will not issue warnings, but citations to anyone who possesses alcohol in the Long Island Park. They'll also check to make sure people have permits to camp.

Captain Keven Schmitt says if you want to drink all weekend, stay home. "It's not an alcoholic event, that was never its intention, it's a family event, and it still is a family event. You don't need alcohol to have fun," Schmitt said.

This event is sponsored by the Ruritan Club of Long Island. However, the Sheriff's Office wants to point out that they are not held responsible for last year's accident, or how the event has progressed.

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