The streets of Englewood will be under intense scrutiny this weekend as the Chicago Police Department announces a DUI saturation patrol from Friday evening through the early hours of Saturday. According to the Chicago Police Department's statement, the operation will focus on monitoring for signs of impaired driving, as well as enforcing speed, alcohol-related laws, and seat belt violations.
Officers equipped with speed detection gear will be roving the 7th District, apprehending those pushing the pedal too hard. The Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) Mobile Unit will be present too, facilitating the swift processing of DUI charges. The unit ensures suspected drivers can be issued individual recognition bonds on the spot, without the delay of transport to a lockup facility for bonding.
This initiative comes after a similar patrol in the 17th (Albany Park) District reported notable enforcement actions. According to the information provided by the Chicago Police Department, there were 54 total citations issued during the February 9–10 patrol. Among these were 17 for unsafe vehicle violations, 3 for speeding, and a single arrest for driving under the influence.
Alongside the singular DUI, the previous saturation patrol in Albany Park district recorded violations across the spectrum: open liquor (1), insurance (4), seat belt (1), suspended/revoked licenses (2), and no driver's license (3). Traffic violations also included distracted driving (2) and 20 other assorted incidents. Yet, in the busy streets, no vehicles were towed. The police folks are urging motorists to abide by traffic laws and drive responsibly to avoid becoming part of these statistics.
