The North Dakota Highway Patrol conducted a sobriety checkpoint in Richland County on Friday, October 13. One-hundred-seventy-five vehicles went through the checkpoint, eight drivers were tested for DUI. There were no citations or arrests made during the checkpoint. Saturation patrols were conducted in the southeast region following the checkpoint on Friday, October 13 and on Saturday, October 14. During the enforcement event, 127 traffic stops were conducted, and six DUI arrests were made. There were a total of 96 citations issued to include: two Open Container citations; two drug citations; and five Driving Under Suspension (DUS) citations.

On Friday, October 13, the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP) along with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office will conduct a DUI checkpoint at a predetermined location in Richland County. Following the checkpoint on Friday and continuing throughout the day on Saturday, October 14, the North Dakota Highway Patrol will conduct saturation patrols in Richland, Sargent, Dickey, and Ransom Counties.
Impaired driving and impaired driving related motor vehicle crashes threaten the safety of everyone traveling on North Dakota’s roadways. Through September 28 of this year, there have been 71 fatal crashes on North Dakota roads resulting in 81 fatalities; thirteen of those fatalities involved alcohol. The weekend’s sobriety checkpoint and saturation events are part of the NDHP’s ongoing efforts to maintain roadway safety for the traveling public.

NDHP Sgt. Andrew Cashin stated, “Drivers hold a personal responsibility not only for their own safety but also for the safety of others traveling on our roadways. Before taking the wheel, pledge to yourself and your community to never drive while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substances that can compromise your driving capabilities and decision-making abilities.”