DUI Checkpoint Nabs One Suspected Drunk Driver

The Arcadia Police Department, participating in a countywide DUI enforcement effort, set up a DUI checkpoint at California St. and Santa Anita Ave. on Dec. 16.

From the hours of 6 p.m. - 12 a.m., the checkpoint saw 1326 cars pass through with 56 of those vehicles taken to a second inspection point. The APD made one arrest for DUI. 

According to the APD, it comes as no surprise that only one motorist was arrested for DUI -- the number of DUI arrests are commonly low at these checkpoints.

"The checkpoint is used more so as a public awareness tool to bring DUI to the forefront of everyone's mind," Lt. Bob Anderson of the Arcadia Police Department wrote in an email to Patch.  

The holidays are often a time for parties and celebrations.  Taking a cab or using a designated driver are two ways to prevent drunk driving. There's also Asuza-based Jan's Towing's Tipsy Tow Program, which offers a free ride to drivers who have been drinking. In addition, they even tow your car home for you. And that wasn't a misprint, the service is free.

The complete breakdown of the Dec. 16 checkpoint is as follows:

    -- 1326 Vehicles Passed Through the Checkpoint

    -- 56 Vehicles Passed through Secondary Inspection Point

    -- 1 DUI  Arrest

    -- 15 Unlicensed Drivers

    -- 4 Suspended Licenses

    -- 14 Vehicles Stored

    -- 2 Possession of Marijuana While Driving

    -- 6 No Insurance Violations

    -- 2 Expired Registration Violations

    -- 1 No Front License Plate