Local DUI checkpoint yields 1 OVI citation

VW independent/submitted information

The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Van Wert Police Department, held an OVI checkpoint on Ohio 118, between Cooper and Fox roads, on Friday, August 5. The checkpoint began at 6 p.m. and concluded at 9 that evening.

OVI checkpoints conducted by the Patrol and local law enforcement agencies are used to not only enforce impaired driving laws, but also to educate the public on the dangers and irreparable repercussions that often occur as a result of impaired driving.

“The general public rarely gets to see the true nature and devastation that impaired driving causes,” said Lieutenant Tim Grigsby, Van Wert Post commander. “An operation such as this helps us to spread the message that alcohol and drug impaired driving is a killer in our communities.

“Law enforcement is not going to wait around in response mode to deal with this dangerous issue,” he added. “Together, we are going to attack it head on.

Lt. Grigsby advised that anyone using any substance that can cause impairment should designate a sober driver should travel be necessary.

More than 700 cars traveled through the well-publicized checkpoint on Friday. Troopers and police officers were able to make contact with vehicle occupants and briefly educate them on the dangers of impaired driving. One adult arrest for operating a vehicle under the influence was recorded. No other citations were issued.