A key factor in determining whether you will be arrested for drunk driving in Michigan is the identity of the police officer who stops you.
Some law enforcement officers are known for being tougher than others on suspected drunk drivers.
Three of the toughest in Michigan apparently patrol the Kalamazoo County villages of Richland and Schoolcraft.
In 2012, there were a total of 127 DUI arrests in Kalamazoo County. Three officers were responsible for nearly all of them – 123 to be exact.
This is from MLive:
The Richland and Schoolcraft police departments topped the state in drunken-driving arrests per officer in 2012.
Statistics from the state of Michigan show that Richland’s three full-time officers … arrested an average of 18.7 drunken drivers each, to lead the state last year.
Schoolcraft, with four full-time police positions, logged 71 DUIs in 2012, a rate of 17.8 arrests per officer.
Be Careful in Kalamazoo
When measured by arrests per officer, Richland and Schoolcraft – whose seven full-time officers made a combined 127 DUI arrests in 2012 – far outpace larger agencies in DUI enforcement.
For example, Kalamazoo Township Police made 113 arrests with 29 full-time officers last year. Western Michigan University’s Department of Public Safety tallied 71 DUI arrests with 27 full-time officers.
“They’re well-trained at it,” the Richland Chief of Police was quoted as saying when asked why his officers racked up so many DUI arrests. “They’re good at it. They’ve been doing it for years.”
Another factor: two major roads – M-89 and M-43 – run through the heart of Richland, and U.S. 131 is the main route through Schoolcraft.
Factors Leading to a DUI Arrest in Michigan
In addition to the law enforcement agency involved, there are a number of variables that can affect a person’s likelihood of getting stopped on suspicion of driving while impaired. These include:
- Driving too fast or too slow.
- Weaving, crossing the center line or other erratic maneuvers.
- Driving at night without headlights.
- Trying to elude police.
- Driving during late night hours.
- Drinking or using drugs in a visible and conspicuous manner.
- Driving on the wrong side of the road.
- Engaging in other suspicious behavior behind the wheel.
If you have been arrested for driving while intoxicated, talk to a Michigan DUI attorney so you will know your legal options.
