The California Highway Patrol (CHP) conducted a sobriety/driver license checkpoint last night, August 22, 2013, from 9:15 pm to 3:15 am this morning. It was located on Chapala Street between Gutierrez Street and Haley Street. Motorists approaching the checkpoint saw informational signs advising them a sobriety checkpoint was ahead. Once diverted into the lane, motorists were detained only a few moments, while an officer explained the purpose of the checkpoint and checked their driver license. The CHP sobriety checkpoint was conducted in accordance with the guidelines for checkpoint operations outlined in the California Supreme Court decision, Ingersoll vs. Palmer.
The Santa Barbara Area’s checkpoint resulted in 11 arrests for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI), one arrest for Disorderly Conduct, and one motorist was cited for driving without a valid driver’s license. The corresponding vehicles were towed from the scene.
An Isla Vista man attempted to flee from officers while being detained on suspicion of DUI. A Taser deployment and physical force was necessary to take the man into custody. In addition to DUI, the man is facing a Felony charge for resisting officers by use of force or violence; a violation of Penal Code section 69.