3 arrested for DUI during Super Bowl patrols, Fresno police said

FRESNO, California (KFSN) – It was a busy Super Bowl Sunday for the Fresno Police Department.

Extra policemen patrolled the city streets in an effort to keep drunk drivers on the roads.

On Sunday night, 147 stops were made and eleven sobriety tests were conducted. Three people were arrested for driving while intoxicated.

In previous years, the police department may have run DUI checkpoints, but police say the pandemic has altered its operations.

“We came into contact with many of these drivers during checkpoints and we just want to try to limit exposure to the police and the public,” said the police sergeant in Fresno. Ritchie O’Dell.

If convicted, a first DUI offense can result in a series of penalties, including three to five years of probation and a fine of at least $ 390.

With restrictions on indoor meals due to the pandemic, many bars and breweries have also had to change their game day plans.

At Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company, the team saw fewer people, but more beer sales.

Manager William Compton said the Super Bowl does not normally draw large crowds, but delivery discounts generate more profits.

“With Super Bowl Sunday, it feels more like a family affair. It’s more like a holiday for people and it’s something where people like to celebrate at home,” said Compton.

Sgt. O’Dell said that with more people celebrating at home, the department’s patrolling efforts have been across the city.

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