Champaign, IL (Chambana Today) – Champaign County Sheriff Dustin Heuerman released the results of a Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) “Saturation Saturday” checks that occurred in Savoy on Saturday, August 24. The study was part of a nationwide effort to get impaired drivers off the streets before they cause an accident. The group also promotes deterring intoxicated people from operating a motor vehicle.
Sheriff’s deputies conducted 23 traffic stops on Saturday, which resulted in 12 traffic citations and 13 traffic warnings being issued for various violations of the Illinois Vehicle Code, including one Scott’s Law violation. Illinois Scott’s Law requires that all motorists move over when encountering stopped or disabled emergency vehicles displaying warning lights.
No Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests were made during the detail. “Our ultimate goal is to deter individuals who may be impaired from operating a motor vehicle in the first place, so they don’t have the opportunity to be involved in a motor vehicle accident” stated Sheriff Heuerman. “With this goal in mind, this detail was a success.”
In 2023, Champaign County Sheriff’s deputies made 91 arrests for DUI and investigated 32 motor vehicle accidents where DUI was determined to be a contributing factor. In 2024, Champaign County Sheriff’s deputies have so far made 51 arrests for DUI and have investigated 14 motor vehicle accidents where DUI was determined to be a contributing factor.
The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office will continue its increased effort of getting impaired drivers off Champaign County roadways through the Labor Day weekend.