According to a story appearing on the Patch.com website last week, seven were either arrested for DUI or cited for driving on a revoked or suspended license.
Authorities say that the DUI checkpoint was conducted by the Manhattan Beach Police Department (MBPD) on Friday, July 21, at the intersection of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and John Street. A total of 780 drivers were screened.
MBPD officers arrested three motorists on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Four other drivers were cited for driving on a suspended or revoked license. During the checkpoint, three vehicles were impounded by the MBPD.
In a statement, the MBPD said that the purpose of the checkpoint was to discourage drivers from getting behind the wheel after drinking or using marijuana or when going out to drink to appoint a designated driver.
“By publicizing these educational enforcement efforts, the Manhattan Beach Police Department believes that drinking and driving, and driving while unlicensed will be reduced,” a spokesperson for the MBPD said in the statement.
California law enforcement officials remind motorists that impaired driving not only includes alcohol but also some prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, other illegal drugs, and marijuana.
A first-time charge of DUI can cost $13,500 on average in fines; if convicted, a driver can lose their license for one year.
The MBPD conducted last Friday’s checkpoint in cooperation with other law enforcement agencies. This and other checkpoints are partially funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
