The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO), in partnership with the Maryland State Police, will conduct a roadside sobriety checkpoint on Friday evening, July 17, 2026, in the Leonardtown area.
Sobriety checkpoints are one of several proactive traffic safety initiatives conducted throughout the year to educate motorists, deter impaired driving, and promote safer roadways for everyone.
During a checkpoint, all vehicles are briefly stopped, and deputies make a quick assessment of each driver for signs of alcohol or drug impairment. Most drivers who show no signs of impairment are delayed only momentarily before continuing on their travels. If an officer observes signs of impairment, the driver may be directed to a separate area for further evaluation.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes that highly visible traffic enforcement, including sobriety checkpoints and targeted patrols, plays an important role in preventing impaired driving. Advance public notification, legally mandated, helps raise awareness, encourages responsible decisions before getting behind the wheel, and supports the overall goal of reducing impaired driving on our roadways.
SMCSO reminds motorists that if their plans include alcohol or impairing substances, they should designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or arrange for another safe ride home. Planning before you go out helps protect you, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road.
This traffic safety initiative is funded in part by the Maryland Highway Safety Office through its Impaired Driving Enforcement Grant
