‘Going out tonight? So are we’: Ohio PD reveals mobile DUI testing unit

The mobile testing unit will give more time to patrol officers to answer calls for service

By Bill Carey
Police1

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Division of Police unveiled the department’s mobile breath testing vehicle: the DUI Interceptor. The vehicle, which police say was provided through a grant, began patrolling streets this week.

The DUI Interceptor eliminates the need for officers to transport an impaired driver to a police facility to conduct a breath test and gives patrol officers more time to answer calls for service, WBNS reported.

In a Facebook post, the department said the vehicle will assist officers in the field when they arrest anyone suspected of driving impaired. “Processing DUI drivers roadside saves time in processing, allowing our officers to better serve the community,” the post stated.

The vehicle features stylized superhero graphics and the tagline: “Going out tonight? So are we.” The purpose of the design is to be visually engaging and inform the community that their safety is being protected.

“Our aim is always to promote safe, sober driving,” said Sergeant Adam Barton of the OVI Countermeasures Unit. “The publicity around this program and the visibility of the vehicle are meant to make people think twice about driving after they’ve been drinking, knowing that if they do drive impaired, they will be charged.”