MEDIA ADVISORY
MARCH 20, 2009 #09-014
12:00 P.M. DONALDSON

Alexandria Police Target Drunk Drivers

On March 21, Alexandria police will substantially increase enforcement of drunk driving laws with a mobile DUI detail. The DUI crackdown will begin at 8:30 P.M. on Saturday, March 21, and will continue until 6:30 A.M. on Sunday, March 22.

Additional officers have been assigned to patrol major corridors, targeting motorists who commit hazardous moving violations and exhibit other behaviors that may indicate a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Chief of Police David P. Baker reminds drivers that the maximum penalty in Virginia for the first conviction for driving under the influence is 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine and a 12-month suspension of driving privileges. In addition, there are mandatory jail terms associated with these offenses, depending upon the blood alcohol content of the driver. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles administrative fees may apply as well.

For further details, please call the Media Services Unit at 703.838.4636.