What:
Sobriety Checkpoint

When:
Saturday, January 7, 2006
8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Where:
Olympic Boulevard and Serrano Avenue

Who:
Officers and Reserves from Wilshire Patrol Division

Why:
The LAPD's Wilshire Patrol Division will conduct a sobriety checkpoint in early January.  The purpose of the checkpoint is to raise public awareness of drunk driving and reduce the number of traffic collisions involving intoxicated drivers.

Motorists approaching the checkpoint will see information signs advising them that a sobriety checkpoint is ahead.  Once diverted into a lane, drivers will be detained only a few moments while an officer explains the purpose of the checkpoint.

The checkpoint will be conducted in accordance with guidelines for checkpoint operations as specified in the Supreme Court decision of Ingersol vs. Palmer.  Based on traffic volume, all motorists will be checked.  If traffic becomes congested, vehicles will be chosen according to a pre-selected standard (e.g., every 3rd or 5th vehicle) to assure objectivity. 

The California Office of Traffic Safety, in an effort to support the apprehension of drunk drivers, has provided funds to conduct this operation as part of their "Three Plus One Program."

The press may contact the Wilshire Division, Lieutenant Nicholas Barbara, Traffic Safety Coordinator, at 213-473-0476.