Police Conduct Safety Checks

Thursday evening safety checks by officers resulted in five arrests, according to a department news release.

The operation took place on U.S. 411 near Industrial Park Road and as a result, criminal charges included DUI, open container, possession of marijuana less than 1 ounce, driving on a suspended license, driving without a license and probation violation.

Officials say the purpose of driver safety checks is to help ensure the safety of motorists by detecting violations and education. 

"The latest statistics available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that in 2009 Georgia had a 14 percent decrease in traffic fatalities," local police officials said in the press release. "This is directly attributable to increased safety checks by law enforcement and the public making a concerted effort to use seat belts, child safety seats, designated drivers and to report suspected DUI drivers."

Detailed information and statistics on traffic safety can be found on the NHTSA's website.