Probation to monitor high-risk, repeat DUI offenders

November 6, 2018

SOLANO COUNTY – The County of Solano has been awarded a $234,871 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to the Probation Department, ensuring that high-risk, repeat DUI offenders with suspended or revoked licenses are complying with all court orders.

"It is truly my pleasure to once again thank the California Office of Traffic Safety for providing funding for two deputy probation officers that will work collaboratively with local law enforcement to provide concentrated monitoring of DUI offenders in our community," said Solano County Chief Probation Officer, Christopher Hansen.  “Solano County Probation is committed to delivering essential services to high risk DUI offenders to achieve the goal of community protection and reducing the risk of re-offense.”

The grant will fund Probation Department personnel to monitor drivers on probation for felony DUI or multiple misdemeanor DUI convictions, including conducting unannounced fourth amendment waiver home searches, random alcohol and drug testing, and making sure those on probation are attending court-ordered DUI education and treatment programs.

The grant also funds Probation sting operations, including:
- Probation Sweeps: Probation officers go out in search of DUI offenders with outstanding arrest warrants for failing to show up to a court hearing or violating the terms of their probation.

- Court Stings: Probation officers stop offenders who drive away from court after being told not to drive and/or had their license suspended or revoked.

This grant is aimed at reducing the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol and other drug related collisions in Solano County by preventing DUI offenders with suspended or revoked licenses from getting behind the wheel and violating the terms of their probation.  In 2015, 17 were killed and 258 injured in such crashes in Solano County.

“Intensive supervision of DUI offenders helps ensure that these offenders are not a risk to themselves or others,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft.  “Our coordinated effort with the Solano County Probation Department to keep a close eye on DUI offenders reduces their chance of re-offending, making roadways safer for everyone.”

While alcohol remains the worst offender for DUI crashes, Solano County Probation supports efforts from OTS that “DUI Doesn't Just Mean Booze.” Prescription medications and marijuana can also be impairing by themselves, or in combination with alcohol, and can result in a DUI arrest.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.