For further information, contact:
Sergeant Brian Winsor
Elk Grove Police Department
Desk: 916-478-8087
Cell: 916-479-4017

AVOID the Capital 15 DUI Taskforce Kicks Off the August/Labor Day DUI Crackdown With Sobriety Checkpoint

 Elk Grove, California – The Sacramento County AVOID the Capital 15 DUI taskforce will be starting off the summer mobilization period with a sobriety checkpoint, scheduled to take place Saturday, August 16th in the City of Elk Grove. Officers will check all motorists for signs of intoxication and impaired drivers will be arrested, reminding all – Drunk Driving! Over the Limit! Under Arrest! The summer season sees a rise in deaths and injuries. Sacramento County law enforcement officials will be out in full force for the August/Labor Day DUI crackdown.

Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest crimes. In 2006, 55 were killed and 1,415 injured in Sacramento County; nearly 16,000 died nationally. Police Officers, Sheriff Deputies, and CHP Officers are teaming with community leaders across the state to remind all of those who plan on consuming alcohol during summer events to plan ahead by designating a sober driver before the party begins. In addition to Saturday’s checkpoint, Sacramento will see increased DUI enforcement starting August 15th through Labor Day weekend.

The Sacramento County AVOID the Capital 15 taskforce is sending out a strong message
to remind everyone to designate a sober driver. Whether you are meeting a few friends at a local night spot after work or attending a summer barbecue with members of your community, if you plan on drinking alcohol, don’t drive! And don’t let your friends drive if you think they are impaired.

Designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive while impaired are just two of the simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving.
Plan ahead with these tips:
• Party hosts and families must limit drinks to your guests, don’t serve more than one or two over several hours.
• Cut back on the amount of drinks you plan to bring to the party.
• Arrange rides home for your gatherings before your guests arrive.
• Report Drunk Drivers – Call 9-1-1

The AVOID the Capital 15 DUI enforcement campaign is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Media Notes: Reporters and camera crews wishing to interview a taskforce officer during the summer mobilization kick-off checkpoint may make arrangements to do so by contacting Sergeant Brian Winsor, Elk Grove Police Department, 916-478-8087.