The Chicago Police Department is sharpening its focus on impaired driving this weekend with a DUI Saturation Patrol in the 1st (Central) District. Scheduled from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 9, through 2 a.m. Saturday, May 10, the patrol aims to curb DUI incidences by increasing police presence, noting that these efforts don't just end with alcohol-related infractions, as officers will also be keying in on speeding, safety belt violations, and other vehicular offenses.
Audit results from a similar patrol last weekend in the 11th (Harrison) District, made available on the Chicago Police Department's news site, highlight the broad scope of traffic infractions that saturation patrols often intersect with. Over the May 2-3 stretch, though no DUI arrests were recorded, officers penned a total of 20 citations for a variety of misdeeds including four unsafe vehicle violations, two insurance violations, and two instances where motorists drove without a valid license.
The Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) Mobile Unit notably bolsters the efficiency of these patrols. It serves as a swift intermediary for processing DUI charges, essentially bypassing the need to transport individuals to lockups for the standard routine. This innovative approach provides on-site Individual Recognizance Bonds, allowing for a more streamlined procedure that ensures both safety and legal processes are upheld in a timely fashion.
