By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

Police presence will be increased on Hays streets this weekend as the Hays Police Department will conduct a sobriety checkpoint Sunday morning in the 1000 block of Vine.

According to Sgt. Mitch Berens the purpose of the lane is to improve the safety of the community by identifying impaired drivers and removing them from the roadway.

Berens said officers will stop every vehicle traveling northbound on Vine between 12:30 and 2:30 a.m. Sunday.

“The purpose of the check lane is to enforce traffic laws with the focus on DUI impairment,” Berens said. “We’ll look for other traffic violations as well.”

He said transporting open containers and underage possession are a few of the violations officers usually see. But he added the check lanes also lead to the identification and arrest of people wanted in connection with other cases.

Berens said if there is no reason for the police to suspect a person is driving under the influence, they will only be stopped for a few seconds before being sent on their way.

The HPD is asking for the public’s cooperation during the event.

This event is being conducted in accordance with the Kansas Department of Transportation “I.D.D.P.” – Impaired Driving Deterrence Program.