SANTA MONICA—On April 24, the Santa Monica Police Department will conduct a sobriety (D.U.I./driver’s license) checkpoint in Santa Monica.

The checkpoint will take place on the 2300 block of Pico Blvd.  SMPD officers will contact motorists to check their sobriety and drivers’ license status.  The checkpoint will be the fourth of several that will occur over the past 12 months.

SMPD reports that since 2005 the number of alcohol-related deaths has decreased due to efforts like this coming checkpoint.  However, law enforcement and the public are needed to work towards zero fatalities.

“Law enforcement officers are doing more to remove drunk drivers from California’s streets and highways thanks to our D.U.I. traffic safety funding,” Christopher J. Murphy Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety, saysin a prepared statement.  “But everyone can help make their communities safer.  If you see a drunk driver, call 911.”

SMPD reminds motorists who plan on drinking to always have a designated driver available, or to have a taxi cab transport them safely home.

For further information, contact Sergeant Jeff Wiles at SMPD’s Traffic Division at 310-458-8950, or Public Information Officer Sergeant Jay Trisler at 310-458-8471.