HANOVER COUNTY, Va. — Sheriff’s deputies in Hanover County have planned a series of DUI checkpoints in an effort to stop people from driving while drunk. In a somewhat unconventional move, the sheriff’s office publicized the nights they planned to conduct those checkpoints.

“Our goal is to prevent drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel in the first place,” Hanover Sheriff’s Deputy Terry Sullivan said. “Making the community aware of sobriety checkpoints furthers the Sheriff’s Office desire to educate our citizens of the very real dangers of driving while intoxicated and serve as a reminder of our presence in the community.”

Sullivan said the checkpoints will take place tonight — November 26 — and again on December 5 and December 12. He did not disclose where in the county the checkpoints would be set-up.

During the checkpoints, deputies will stop all vehicles and explain the reason for the checkpoint. The deputies will request to see the driver’s license. Drivers suspected of being drunk or on drugs will be tested on the spot.

“Education and prevention are always the preferred method,” Sullivan said. “Sobriety checkpoints are another tool to complement our officers training in hopes of reducing DUI in our communities.”

Last year there were 8,047 alcohol-related crashes in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. More than 250 of those crashes resulted in death.