COLUMBUS, OH. (WOWO) The Ohio State Highway Patrol says 158 impaired drivers were removed from Ohio roadways during a three-day statewide OVI enforcement effort conducted in partnership with more than 100 law enforcement agencies. The Lead Off Ohio State Highway Patrol reports 158 impaire d driving arrests during statewide enforcement effort Troopers checked more than 18,500 vehicles during May 14–16 OVI operations Officials say 51 arrests occurred directly at checkpoint locations Statewide enforcement effort The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced results from its coordinated OVI checkpoint operations held from May 14 through May 16 across Ohio. Officials say troopers worked alongside more than 100 local and state law enforcement partners during the three-day effort. The operation included checkpoints in multiple counties, including central Ohio locations on Friday night and additional checkpoints in Fairfield and Athens counties on Saturday. Arrest and enforcement totals According to OSHP, troopers conducted checks on more than 18,500 vehicles during the enforcement period. In total, 158 impaired drivers were arrested statewide. Of those arrests, 51 occurred directly at checkpoint locations, while others were made through associated enforcement efforts in surrounding areas. Troopers also made four felony arrests during the operation. OSHP emphasizes safety message Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles Jones said the goal of the checkpoint operations is to deter impaired driving and improve roadway safety. “The goal of these statewide checkpoints is to deter and intercept impaired drivers, ensuring the safety of all motorists on Ohio’s roadways,” Jones said. Officials noted that impaired driving remains a leading factor in fatal and serious injury crashes across the state. Crash data and ongoing enforcement OSHP data shows there have been nearly 80 fatal crashes and more than 200 serious injury crashes in Ohio this year involving impaired driving. Law enforcement agencies say ongoing checkpoint operations are part of a broader strategy that includes public education and enforcement aimed at reducing those numbers. Public safety reminders State officials are urging drivers to avoid impaired driving and plan ahead by designating a sober driver or using rideshare services when needed. Motorists are also encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling #677 to reach the nearest OSHP post. The Takeaway The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports 158 impaired drivers were arrested during a three-day statewide enforcement effort involving more than 100 law enforcement agencies. More than 18,500 vehicles were checked, with 51 arrests made directly at checkpoint locations and additional enforcement actions occurring statewide. Officials say impaired driving remains a major factor in fatal and serious injury crashes, and they continue to emphasize prevention, enforcement, and public awareness campaigns. The post Ohio Highway Patrol: OVI enforcement leads to 158 arrests, 4 felony charges appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less