Modesto Police Department News Release

Modesto, CA - Officers from the Modesto Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint this weekend.  The local checkpoint is just one of many that will be conducted by law enforcement personnel across the country. If you drive drunk, we will be looking for you. If you’re over the limit and we catch you, you will be arrested.

Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest crimes and Modesto will be conducting a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Saturday, August 29, 2009 (location not disclosed) targeting those who still don’t heed the message to designate a sober driver.  Funding for the Checkpoint is through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“Statewide, DUI deaths fell 9 percent to 1,029 in 2008. Credit for the drop in DUI deaths goes to law enforcement, state and local agencies, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and other safety advocates," said Christopher Murphy, Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety. "In addition, the people of California have come together to address this deadly problem and are now seeing results. As positive as these figures are, though, we can never let up until we achieve our goal of zero deaths." 

“Drunk driving is simply not worth the risk. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for impaired driving can be significant,” said Chief Michael G. Harden. “Violators will face jail time, the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, attorney fees, time away from work, and dozens of other expenses. So don’t take the chance. Remember, if you are caught over the limit, you will be placed under arrest.”

“Law enforcement everywhere is asking for the community’s help; if you see a Drunk Driver – Call 911,” said Chief Harden.  “In addition to this checkpoint I’ve asked everyone in my department to focus additional efforts toward removing an impaired driver during the campaign period and everyday they are on patrol.”

For more information, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org and www.californiaavoid.org.

Media Notes: To schedule an interview regarding Anti Drunk-Driving efforts, or request a ride-along with law enforcement during the holiday period, please contact Sgt. Brian Findlen, 209-572-9579, findlenb@modestopd.com.

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