The Ohio State Highway Patrol will conduct statewide OVI checkpoints next week as part of a three-day effort aimed at reducing impaired driving crashes and fatalities. The checkpoints will take place May 14 through May 16, with troopers and more than 100 local law enforcement agencies participating across Ohio. “The goal of these statewide checkpoints is to deter and intercept impaired drivers, ensuring the safety of all motorists on Ohio’s roadways,” said Colonel Charles Jones, superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Patrol officials say impaired driving continues to be a leading factor in fatal and serious injury crashes statewide. The announcement also highlighted the story of Thomas Tomasheski of Grafton, whose daughter-in-law and grandson were killed in a 2011 crash involving an impaired driver. His son and granddaughter were seriously injured in the head-on collision. “I have a life sentence,” Tomasheski said. “There is never a day that goes by without my mourning the loss of my family… never.” The Ohio Department of Transportation will assist with traffic control and signage during the checkpoints. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources also plans increased OVI enforcement on both waterways and roadways during the same period. Drivers are encouraged to designate a sober driver, use rideshare services, and report suspected impaired drivers by calling #677, which connects callers directly to the nearest Ohio State Highway Patrol post.

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