Crime & Safety
County Cops Step Up Highway 'Sobriety Checkpoints'
Warning: Specialists will work the checkpoints this month, evaluating drivers for alcohol and drug use.
There will be an increased number of sobriety checkpoints this month in St. Louis County, County Police Officer and spokesman Rick Eckhard said on Monday.
Specially trained officers of the county's Highway Safety Unit and Division of Patrol will conduct the surprise checkpoints.
Officers participating in this enforcement had additional training in recognizing motorists who have had too much to drink, or are under the influence of illegal drugs, Eckhard said.
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"Removing intoxicated drivers from our roadways is a high priority for the St. Louis County Police," County Police Chief Tim Fitch said in the Monday announcement. "The use of checkpoints has been proven to be an effective method to accomplish this goal."
Officers also will issue citations for seat belt and other violations, he said.
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