DUI checkpoints, saturation patrols increase for holidays

By Kimberly Cain, Tucson News Now intern

TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) - The holidays will bring an increase in DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols by deputies from the Pima County Sheriff's Department's DUI Unit and field deputies.

Starting at the end of November, DUI sobriety checkpoints and DUI saturation patrols will be every weekend.

According to Arizona laws, judges must adhere to and impose sentences, even for first time offenders that include jail time, court costs and attorney's fees. Consequences include loss of job, loss of income, loss of driving privileges, or injuring or killing someone. Second degree murder or manslaughter charges are possible sentences to face in Arizona for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and someone dies as a result of your reckless driving.

Tips from the Pima County Sheriff's Department are to plan ahead, get alternate transportation, like a cab, become or use a designated driver and buy a breathalyzer. Breathalyzers are a way to prevent irresponsible drivers from taking the wheel.

If you suspect a person is driving while intoxicated, avoid them and immediately call 911 to report the driver to law enforcement.