NEWS RELEASE



For further information contact: Cpl. Al Nothum

314/340-4062



#C010530

September 7, 2005



EMPHASIS: Patrol Announces DWI checkpoint in St. Charles County



Captain Ronald S. Johnson, Commanding Officer of Troop C, Missouri State Highway Patrol, St.Louis, announces that troopers will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint in St. Charles County during the month of September. The checkpoint will be concentrated in an area and on a particular highway where a large number of alcohol related traffic offenses have occurred. Officers from the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Department and the O’Fallon Police Department may assist with the checkpoint.



The officers conducting the checkpoint will be utilizing the mobile DWI unit referred to as the B.A.T. van (Breath Alcohol Testing van). The van is equipped with a breath testing instrument, communications, and other equipment and supplies related to DWI enforcement.



Captain Johnson urges all motorist passing through a checkpoint to use extreme caution by slowing down, keeping their eyes on the road and vehicles ahead for any sudden stopping, and to follow the directions of the officers.



The Patrol continues to enforce a zero tolerance policy when it comes to drinking and driving and encourages the public to report suspected drunk drivers by dialing *55 or 911 on their cell phones.