General Headquarters — Columbus, Ohio

 

For Immediate Release: August 18, 2003
Contact: Lt. Tony Bradshaw (614) 752-2792

 

Patrol announces plans for weekend sobriety checkpoints

COLUMBUS -- Colonel Paul D. McClellan, superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, announced today that troopers will operate three checkpoints to deter and intercept drinking drivers this weekend.

The locations of the upcoming checkpoints will not be revealed until later in the week. The counties where the checkpoints will be held will be announced the day prior to the checkpoints, and the exact locations will be announced the morning of the checkpoints.

“Ohio traffic crash statistics show that 379 people were killed in 341 crashes caused by impaired drivers on Ohio roadways in 2002,” Colonel McClellan said. “If you plan to consume alcohol, designate a driver or make other travel arrangements before you drink – don’t let another life be lost for the senseless and selfish act of getting behind the wheel impaired.”

Ohio Public Safety Director Ken Morckel feels very strongly that checkpoints are effective in the prevention of driving under the influence.

“Our ultimate goal is to save lives and reduce injuries caused by impaired drivers. The combination of sobriety checkpoints, heightened public awareness and strictly enforced laws will make the difference,” Director Morckel said.

Operational support in the sobriety checkpoints will be provided by local law enforcement agencies.

# # #

03-180

---