On Friday night, 3 drivers were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence during a DUI Checkpoint conducted by the Santa Maria Police Department.
According to information released by the department, the checkpoint, held on southbound Broadway just south of Williams Street from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m on Dec. 13, also resulted six drivers being cited for driving without a valid license or on a suspended/revoked license.
SMPD reported that 425 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, and 75 drivers were screened.
In a release about the results of the checkpoint, the department reiterated their dedication to removing impaired drivers from the road, and reminded motorists that driving under the influence is not only a serious safety risk but also carries significant legal and financial consequences.
Drivers facing a first-time DUI conviction can expect an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver's license.
Additional DUI and driver's license checkpoints will be conducted in the coming months as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety.
Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.