Revision of Vehicle Impound Protocol at Checkpoints

WHAT:
News Conference to announce changes to LAPD’s protocol for impounding vehicles stopped at sobriety checkpoints.
WHEN:
Monday, March 14, 2011
9 a.m.

WHERE:
LAPD Public Administration Building (Plaza)
100 West First Street
Los Angeles, Calif. 90012

WHO:
LAPD Chief Charlie Beck
LAPD Assistant Chief Michel Moore
LAPD Captain Rigoberto Romero
Various Community Members

WHY:
To provide detailed information on LAPD’s revised protocol related to how and when the LAPD will impound cars during sobriety checkpoint operations.

Statistics prove that checkpoints save lives and prevent injuries. A recently published article by Mothers Against Drunk Driving referenced how well publicized sobriety checkpoints resulted in a 20 percent reduction in alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.

The changes identified reiterate the primary focus of the sobriety checkpoint as well to ensure the protocols for the impounding of a vehicle are consistently applied.

Finally, this step is part of a larger overall evaluation of the Department’s impound protocols in relationship to the various enforcement statutes, recent case law and their impact.

CONTACT:
For more information, call the LAPD Media Relations Section at 213-486-5910.