Pinellas County has very tough penalties for DUI, and tougher penalties can apply depending on your level of blood alcohol content. If your BAC is above .15%, you can be fined $1,500 for just a first offense, and you can face up to nine months in jail.

Law enforcement officials this weekend will be on patrol for drunk drivers. A DUI checkpoint is commencing today, Friday, October 19, starting at 10p.m. and lasting until 3a.m. Saturday at National Aviation Academy, 6225 Ulmerton Road.

Throughout Pinellas County, the sheriff’s office will set up monthly checkpoints which includes the use of patrol, community policing, K-9, and narcotics deputies. In addition to drivers impaired by alcohol and narcotics, law enforcement will be looking for driver license, registration, insurance, and equipment violations.