Continuation of DWI Checkpoint Program in Ocean County Nets 13 Arrests in Brick Township

Before the start of the busy Labor Day Weekend, Brick Township in conjunction with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office conducted a DUI/DWI sobriety checkpoint on August 30, 2013. The Ocean Signal reported that Lacey Township, Manchester Township and Point Pleasant Police Departments were on the scene to lend a hand. A total of 825 passed through the checkpoint during the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. Three individuals were charged with DUI, seven were charged with possession of CDS, one person was charged with aggravated assault as well as other charges and two people were charged with theft and criminal mischief as a result of the checkpoint.

The program is designed to regionalize and supplement local DWI enforcement throughout the county. The program was funded in part through a grant from the New Jersey Division of Traffic Safety (NJDHTS) and is part of Ocean County’s continuing effort to prosecute impaired drivers who are responsible for one-third of the deaths that occur on Ocean County roadways according to Executive Assistant Prosecutor Michel Paulhus.

The general rule in New Jersey is that the police must have probable cause or a reasonable suspicion of a traffic infraction or violation of law to stop an automobile. A traffic stop that is random or unsupported by probable cause may result in the suppression of all evidence obtained during the stop. A DWI roadblock is an exception. In New Jersey, a roadblock established by law enforcement typically will target vehicles for stopping and inspecting based on factors other than probable cause. Roadblocks are, however, highly regulated and must comport with all requirements mandated by law. If you were issued a DWI ticket resulting from a roadblock, you should consult with a DWI defense attorney immediately.