Dozens caught at DUI, driver's license checkpoint

DOWNEY – Downey police officers cited 56 people for driving without a proper license at a DUI and driver's license checkpoint last Friday night. According to police statistics, 1,175 vehicles were screened at the checkpoint located on Imperial Highway at Rives Avenues.

Three drivers were arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. Fifty-six drivers were arrested or issued citations for driving without a license or on a suspended or revoked license.

Fifty-eight citations were issued in total.

"DUI and drivers license checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries," the Downey Police Department said in a statement. "A major component of these checkpoints are the deterrent effects it has on those who might drive drunk or drugged-impaired, bringing about awareness and encouraging everyone to use sober designated drivers."

Downey Police plan a DUI saturation patrol Friday, March 6, "in our ongoing commitment to lowering deaths and injuries upon our streets and highways."

The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.