Police Crack Down On Drunk Drivers Over Labor Day Weekend
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Law enforcement officers across the state hit the streets, highways and bars this weekend to keep an eye out for drunk drivers in hopes of keeping Labor Day a safe, not deadly, holiday.
Michelle Fay won't be driving tonight. She says holiday weekends tend to get a little crazy downtown.
"It's a Sunday night and it's already packed in here. Everybody is drinking beers and have a good time because it's a holiday weekend," she said.
The crackdown on drunk drivers started Friday in Sacramento with DUI checkpoints.
"The checkpoints are really good tools to get the message out," said Sacramento police Sgt. Chris Prince. "They're very public."
The checkpoints help educate people about the dangers of drunk driving and act more as a deterrent. However, officials say checkpoints do not result in more arrests, but more officers patrolling the streets.
"We sent out our message. Now it's time to put our feet to the ground for people being a danger to the folks on the ground," said Prince.
On Sunday night, law enforcement across the city teamed up to put extra officers on the streets, patrolling solely for drunk drivers.
"Be highly visible and I hope the rest of the folks will see us out and about, and know that it's either safe to drive or they shouldn't be driving," said Prince.
Stockton police say they've had fewer DUI arrests than last year so far this weekend.
Max and his friends aren't taking any chances. They're enjoying their beers with peace of mind because they have a designated driver, and are hoping other people are also planning ahead.
"You never know who is behind the wheel," he said.
