Multiple Arrests Made, Several Cited At Petaluma DUI Checkpoint

PETALUMA, CA — Nine people were arrested and several citations were issued during a DUI/driver's license checkpoint conducted over the weekend, Petaluma police said Tuesday.

Petaluma PD's Traffic Unit shared statistics from the checkpoint held from 6 p.m. Saturday, June 3, until 1:30 a.m. Sunday on Petaluma Boulevard North at Gossage Avenue, near the Petaluma Outlets.

Most drivers screened during the checkpoint were cooperative and appreciative of Petaluma Police Department’s efforts in trying to deter drunk driving, Petaluma police Sgt. Walt Spiller said.

A total of 1,176 cars went through the checkpoint. Of those, 943 were screened and one person was arrested on suspicion of DUI alcohol.

Another two people were arrested for DUI probation violations, four people were arrested on outstanding warrants, two drivers were arrested for driving on a suspended/revoked license and 18 people were cited for driving without a license.

Checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries, and are placed in locations with the greatest opportunity for DUI deterrence and safety for officers and the public, Spiller said. A major component of these checkpoints is the deterrent effect it has on those who might drive drunk or drugged impaired.

"The Petaluma Police Department is committed to increasing overall traffic safety and reducing the number of alcohol-related collisions," Spiller said. "We will continue our efforts to locate and identify impaired drivers."

Driving under the influence is 100 percent preventable, he said. Further, those caught impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 to $20,000 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

"The Petaluma Police Department encourages people who visit and enjoy Petaluma, to plan ahead and either designate a sober driver, use ride share or call a taxi to avoid drinking and driving," Spiller said.

Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.