Petaluma Police Give Checkpoint Results

PETALUMA, CA — The Petaluma Police Department Traffic Unit screened 627 vehicles during a DUI/driver's license checkpoint held Friday night.

Of those screened, one person was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, Petaluma police Sgt. Walt Spiller said. Another 15 drivers were cited or arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle unlicensed or with a suspended or revoked license.

The checkpoint was held from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, July 7, on Old Redwood Highway between Redwood Way and North McDowell Boulevard.

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

DUI/driver's license checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries, according to police, and are placed in locations with the greatest opportunity for achieving deterrence while also providing safety for officers and the public.

According to police, a major component of such checkpoints is the deterrent effect on those who might drive drunk or drug-impaired — bringing more awareness and encouraging everyone to use sober designated drivers.

"The Petaluma Police Department encourages people who visit and enjoy Petaluma to plan ahead to either designate a sober driver, use ride-share, or call a taxi to avoid drinking and driving," Spiller said. "Driving under the influence is 100 percent preventable."

Drivers 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.

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

"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."