HPD's New DUI Checkpoint Vehicle 6.12.13

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(Gallery by Sarah Cole | scole@al.com)

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama - Huntsville police were proud to show off an upgraded version of their DUI Task Force van, which is significantly larger and almost 20 years newer than the last one.

"This new van will allow us to have multiple prisoners inside and because its bigger and taller. It will be easier to stand up in and move around in," Huntsville police spokesman Harry Hobbs said. Hobbs said the old van had become cluttered with cones, and that this one will be much more functional during checkpoints.

Huntsville has reported the most DUI arrests of any city in the state for the last 15 years. The police department typically announces checkpoints to the public.

Officer Mitch Chappell has worked with Huntsville Police's DUI Task Force for five years. He said his training, along with the resources available in the truck, ensure tests are accurate and checkpoints run smoothly.

Before an eligible driver reaches the truck, which was donated by HEMSI and has been redesigned for its new purpose, Chappell said three field sobriety tests (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk and turn, and one-leg stand), as well as a portable breath test are administered during checkpoints. If those test results show that the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are arrested and taken to the truck to take the official breathalizer test. Chappell said the initial breathalyzer is not admissible in court.

Drivers are read the terms of implied consent and take two breathalyzers once inside the truck. Chappell said police use the lowest reading to determine whether the person is under the influence of alcohol, which is .08, according to Alabama law.

When asked what he would say to someone who claims to be a "good drunk driver" or says they have done it before without incident, Chappell was quick to respond.

"I hear that a lot, and here's what I always say to them, he said. "That's what you may think, but that's not what the law says."

When approaching safety checkpoints, drivers are typically asked to provide a current driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. Additionally, police said seat belt compliance for both driver and all passengers will be checked.

Driving under the influence is one area in which Huntsville Police will not waiver and is a crime they will simply not tolerate, Chappell said.

"It's important because it makes the community a safer place to drive," he said. "It also makes people feel better about driving."

On a personal level though, he said he feels a service is ultimately done to the driver.

"I know that at least that person is safe," he said.

If you see someone who you think might be driving under the influence, driving while distracted, or who is driving recklessly, call the Huntsville Police's non-emergency line at 256-722-7100. Chappell said there has been a recent increase in citizen calls and said tips from the roadway are appreciated.

The next set of announced holiday checkpoints will likely be on July 4, a date when police hope their new addition will still be empty.