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

The location of the upcoming checkpoint will not be revealed until later in the week. The county where the checkpoint will be held will be announced the day prior to the checkpoint, and the exact location will be announced the morning of the checkpoint.

“Ohio traffic crash statistics show that there were over 17,000 alcohol-related crashes in 2004 and 45 percent of those crashes ended in injury or death,” 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 Kenneth 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 checkpoint will be provided by local law enforcement agencies.

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