Sentinel staff report–
In an effort to reduce DUI-related collisions around Memorial Day, the Citrus Heights Police Department will be deploying additional officers on the streets to actively stop and arrest drivers who show signs of alcohol or drug impairment.
The department announced its plans in a news release on Wednesday, noting that Memorial Day “marks the start of California’s 100 dangerous days of summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.” The department noted that 16 people were killed and another 385 were injured in alcohol-involved collisions over Memorial Day Weekend in 2016 — and nearly the same number were killed or injured over Labor Day Weekend that same year.
Q&A: Why do police announce DUI checkpoints in advance?
While a DUI checkpoint will not be included in the weekend’s operations, police said efforts will include “saturation patrols” — dedicated additional patrol officers who focus solely on pulling over drivers showing signs of impairment. Police also said officers will be on the lookout for “aggressive drivers” and will be citing those caught speeding, tailgating, driving distracted or failing to obey traffic signs and signals.
The department said the latest enforcement campaign is funded by a grant through the California Office of Traffic Safety, which is also funding efforts across the state. Police said high-visibility enforcement campaigns will continue throughout the summer, including a current “Click-it or Ticket” campaign.
CHPD: Nearly 50% of DUI arrests involve someone reporting the driver
