The Chicago Police Department is doubling down on DUI enforcement this weekend in the city's 1st (Central) District. In a statement issued by the department, officers are gearing up for a DUI Saturation Patrol from Friday, August 1 at 6 p.m. to Saturday, August 2, at 2 a.m., aiming to curb impaired driving and traffic violations.
Roving police patrols will be deployed in the area, with a keen eye for signs of impaired driving, and a close watch for speeding and seatbelt violations - looking for safety before incidents find them. Speed detection gear will also be out in force, looking to catch those pushing the limits on city streets. The CPD's efforts come equipped with a tool designed to streamline DUI processing: the Breath Alcohol Testing (BAT) Mobile Unit, allowing officers to swiftly charge individuals with DUI offenses on-site, without the necessary trip to the lockup for bonding.
Last weekend's saturation patrol conducted in the 11th (Harrison) District tallied a total of 40 citations, according to the department's tallying of violations. This included 8 unsafe vehicle violations, 11 insurance violations, 4 seat belt violations, 3 cases of suspended or revoked licenses, 2 incidents involving drivers without licenses, a single driver's license violation, and 11 other traffic violations. Remarkably, there were no DUI arrests or citations issued for open liquor, distracted driving, or speeding.
While the BAT Mobile Unit stands ready to issue Individual Recognizance Bonds (I-Bonds) at the scene, the recent patrol in the 11th District did not necessitate the towing of any vehicles, reflecting the observations of these saturation patrols. Residents and drivers within the Central District this weekend are advised to note the increased police presence and adhere strictly to traffic laws, keeping in mind that the roads are watched over by officers, echoing safety as the ultimate goal.
