Police to Crack Down on DWI This Weekend

Alexandria police will crack down on drunk drivers through a mobile sobriety enforcement campaign called Operation Cinco De Mayo on May 5.

This enforcement effort is to deter and apprehend intoxicated drivers in Alexandria, according to a statement from the police.

The drunk-driving crackdown will begin at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, and will continue until 6 a.m. on Sunday, May 6. Police will stop motorists and check them to ensure that alcohol or drugs are not impairing their abilities.

City Police Chief Earl Cook reminds drivers that the maximum penalty in Virginia for the first conviction for driving under the influence is 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine and a 12-month suspension of driving privileges. In addition, there are mandatory minimum jail terms associated with offenses, depending upon the blood alcohol content of the driver. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles administrative fees may apply as well.