Sheriff's trailer makes DUI checkpoints a breeze

The Carson City Sheriff's Department recently purchased a DUI-checkpoint trailer thanks to a grant from the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety and the Department of Public Safety.

According to Sgt. Mike Cullen, the 12-foot trailer carries all the equipment needed, such as road signs, cones and lights, to set up a visible sobriety checkpoint.

"By setting up a mobile trailer designed for this purpose, we will be able to place DUI checkpoints on state and local roadways with ease and purpose," Cullen said. "The equipment used for the checkpoints is federally mandated and meets all state and federal laws associated with the use of DUI checkpoints."

Deputy Jarrod Adams said the first DUI checkpoint is scheduled for May, but he is presently working to secure additional grant money through the Joining Forces Grant and possibly conduct a checkpoint sooner.

"Nationwide, studies indicate that 97 percent of Americans view drinking and driving as a threat to their families and themselves and support increased enforcement efforts like sobriety checkpoints," Cullen said.

The last checkpoint in January had 600 cars pass through and one person was arrested for drunken driving.

Cullen said the trailer can also be used conduct seat belt checkpoints which will take place in April during the Nevada Click or Ticket Campaign.

Also, thanks to a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety, more officers will be patrolling Carson City streets beginning today through March 21 to enforce seat belt laws.

"If you are not wearing your seat belt, you will be ticketed," Adams said.