Dozens caught at DUI checkpoint

BELLFLOWER - Two dozen people were arrested on an array of charges after driving through a DUI and driver's license checkpoint in Bellflower last Friday.The checkpoint was located on Artesia Boulevard, just east of Lakewood Boulevard, and operated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Four people were arrested on DUI charges, including three drivers allegedly high on marijuana. Two were arrested felony drug possession charges. Twelve unlicensed drivers were arrested, along with five people driving on suspended licenses. One person was charged with knowingly allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a vehicle. Five vehicles were impounded for 30 days and eight cars were released to their registered owners. In total, 1,055 vehicles passed through the checkpoint. "All too often, members of our community are senselessly injured or killed on local roadways by impaired drivers," said Detective Daniel Dail. "Alcohol impaired deaths make up the largest number of vehicle fatalities, with 31 percent of all vehicle fatalities caused by a drunk driver." Future checkpoints are planned in the local area, authorities said. Checkpoint locations are determined "based on DUI-related activity in that area," officials said.

********** Published: December 6, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 34