DUI taskforce releases statistics

The North Central Pa. Regional Sobriety Checkpoint DUI Taskforce and Expanded DUI/Underage Drinking Enforcement Program has released the following statistics from a sobriety checkpoint and roving patrols held in Schuylkill County last weekend.

The check point was set up on Aug. 6 in Coaldale with officers contacting a total of 464 vehicles. Of the 21 motorists detained, three operators were tested and arrested, for driving under the influence of alcohol. Officers also issued 14 traffic citations and issued 4 warnings. Five county law enforcement agencies were represented by nine officers.

A Roving DUI patrols was conducted on Aug. 7, when officers from four departments contacted and detained 45 drivers. Two operators were tested, but no one was arrested for DUI. Officers also issued 15 traffic citations one seat belt violation and issued 36 warnings.

Roving patrols and sobriety checkpoints will also be conducted through Aug. 15 on state routes 61, 183, 901, 209, 309, 443, 895, 125, 25, 924 and 54.

Travelers are reminded to dial 911 if they suspect a drunk driver.

To report underage drinking, call 1-888-UNDER21.

The sobriety checkpoints and Roving DUI patrols are funded through the state Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).