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Thursday, July 17, 2008
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Official: Checkpoint arrests 'disappointing'

Staff Reports
Thursday, July 17, 2008 8:30 PM MST

An Arizona Game and Fish Department official called number of Operating Under the Influence arrests at a checkpoint set up recently on the Colorado River “disappointing.”

A multi-agency force issued 58 citations that included 12 OUI charges during a four-hour checkpoint at the I-40 Bridge near Topock.

Although the operation was a success, “arresting one out of 15 boaters (on OUI charges) is unacceptable,” Tim Baumgarten, law enforcement program manager for the game and fish, said in a press release. “People need to understand that recreation becomes life threatening at those numbers,” he said.

In addition to the 12 OUI charges, 15 violations were issued for not having a Type IV throwable, 13 for insufficient personal floatation devices and 11 citations for no fire extinguishers, according to the department. A total of 182 watercraft passed through the checkpoint.

Another multi-agency OUI checkpoint is slated for this weekend, according to the department. Operators will be checked for alcohol impairment, and all boats stopped will be checked for required safety equipment, such as proper life jackets and working fire extinguishers, according to a press release.

“Although a critical element, these checkpoints are not only about removing those under the influence,” Baumgarten said. “It’s also about the safe operation of watercraft. It’s critical for each boat to have the proper equipment in case of an emergency. Going overboard on the Colorado River can become a life-and-death situation in a matter of seconds.”

In addition to the game and fish, the multi-agency effort includes the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Havasu City Police Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Reader Comments
The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the view of havasunews.com.

Reader Comments

Desertrat wrote on Jul 29, 2008 9:31 AM:

" So keep complaining. It really works, doesn't it? If you have valid complaints complete with facts, go to city council meetings, write letters, go see authorities. Polluting up the newspaper forums is counter productive. "

LIFEGOESON wrote on Jul 29, 2008 1:53 AM:

" Oh look Bullhead paper news looks like they have the same types of problems we do REAL CRIME that is.:BULLHEAD CITY - The following is a press release from the Bullhead City Fire Department:

On Wednesday, July 2nd at approximately 5:30 a.m., M.A.G.N.E.T. (Mohave Area General Narcotics Enforcement Team) detectives with assistance from the Bullhead City Police Department’s SWAT team, Lake Havasu City Police Department and D.E.A. (Drug Enforcement Administration) executed a search warrant in the 4400 block of Rio Verde Drive in Fort Mojave, Arizona.
***************************************
And if you go to this site:http://www.topix.com/forum/city/bullhead-city-az/TKNG76BHU5USBHKN7

Their big story is:Bullhead City, AZ

Court wants to hustle up DUI cases
BULLHEAD CITY - Arizona courts will have to process DUI cases more quickly and make sure the law is enforced properly and efficiently.
Read All 82 Comments
Read All 82 Comments

Full Story: Mohave Valley Daily News


Related Topix

Places - Kingman, AZ, Fort Mohave, AZ, Bullhead City, AZ, Arizona





You can read their complaints on their community YES ONLINE so don't say Havasu is the only town that complains on the paper. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 26, 2008 1:49 PM:

" It is being done - thanks for letting us know it is all you complainers driving the tourists away. Has nothing to do with police, signage, judges, it is your 'making the tourist aware.' Nice going. Now you can blame yourself for the drop in tourism and dollars. "

Get together wrote on Jul 25, 2008 10:12 PM:

" Why don't you all get together in a room and discuss the LHC matters face to face, instead of this chicken S#&% way your doing it now, on this forum...If you believe this is going to fix anything YOUR WRONG...Go to a counsel meeting and voice your opinion there...Save the bandwidth of the internet for more useful things like hackers and identity theives...At least in a room, we could sell tickets and make money for the city...You know watching the people here fight it out to the death... "

blame wrote on Jul 25, 2008 7:33 PM:

" Put blame where blame is due=on the people running LH down! If people don't come here on vacation, part of it is due to the fact that posters are running our city down and ruining LH! "

really wrote on Jul 25, 2008 6:03 PM:

" Everycity? Really, please tell us where the complaints about Bullhead city or Kingman's or even the MCSO are? Cant find them? How about parker? Prescott? Flagstaff? Maybe you will find some about Arpio in Phx, or in SB in SoCal, wow that is fine company to be in. "

everycity wrote on Jul 25, 2008 4:31 PM:

" the internet is full of posts that complain about the police here What city doesn’t have people complaining about the police? Valid complaints are investigated. The rest is anonymous posters on the web. Every city in every state has people complaining about the laws just makes lake havasu like every one of them no worse no better "

havasu fan wrote on Jul 25, 2008 4:10 PM:

" Boring, boring, boring, can we please press on and try to make topics interesting, and discuss them sensibly instead of emoting constantly. Thanks. "

It is being done wrote on Jul 25, 2008 4:07 PM:

" DessertRat, only a fool would believe the only thing being done by those who recognize a problem here is to post on this site. I have had several long conversations with two councilmembers about the issue. Things are being done and the best way to keep pressure up is to keep complaining and making tourist aware. Nothing moves the council like falling dollars. "

usmella wrote on Jul 25, 2008 3:58 PM:

" ismella-use your own verbage, not everyone elses!! "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 25, 2008 3:24 PM:

" You think a few whiners on here change public policy? An anonymous newspaper forum with no accountability? Where one or two people complain day in and day out? You think this should be the political influence? If this forum is used for more than just entertainment by the city council and politicians, we are in BIG trouble. "

I smell a.... wrote on Jul 25, 2008 2:52 PM:

" RAT, You are the one calling people names. You have called people unintelligent and now ignorant. It is too bad that you refuse to see the truth. All you have said of others really do apply to you. You are the one who has been wrong. The policy is changing, the CVB was wrong, the Judge does seem to be under the cloud of reprimand, the internet is full of posts that complain about the police here.
Denial is one of the stages you need to go through in counciling so you seem to be on your way. Congrats. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 25, 2008 11:53 AM:

" bye bye you - I truely pity you.
Such anger and hate - might be better directed at something positive. It might heal your soul. "

screendoor wrote on Jul 25, 2008 11:46 AM:

" bye bye you, how many screen names do you use? many posts on here, sound like the same person. I can tell you, that I am not desertrat, but he has many good posts. Just cuz you don't agree with them, does not mean that they aren't good. get out from behind your screen. "

bye-bye you wrote on Jul 25, 2008 10:26 AM:

" DesertRAT. Ignorance is Bliss. Does this mean only THIS screen name of yours wont be posting? Or all your screen names?
As for you why not comment, Desert-that was moving deck chairs, not getting rid of corruption. The pal of those guys removed is still here sitting with a black robe. "

Vicki wrote on Jul 25, 2008 9:53 AM:

" Irisman, I stand corrected! "

Irishman wrote on Jul 25, 2008 9:39 AM:

" No Vicki, I did not make a judgement. I just asked what makes people think a law degree makes someone competent to be a judge. You have to ask yourself, why would a lawyer want to be a judge or magistrate in a one horse municipal court that basically pays peanuts when they could be making bank in private practice. Ambulance chasing pays far better than public service. These are just points to ponder. "

Why not wrote on Jul 25, 2008 6:22 AM:

" Havent you heard? They got rid of the corruption with the last police administration. You are a bit behind the times. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 25, 2008 5:38 AM:

" So now I am a cop? This forum is a joke. Anyone who does not think this is a terrible place to live and that the judges, cops, fire dept, newspaper, cvb is in on a big corrupt conspiracy is told over and over again that they are wrong. Well sit on your computer and wallow in your negativity. I am going to enjoy our city and the sunshine. "

what you hiding Rat wrote on Jul 24, 2008 11:05 PM:

" DesertRAT sounds like one of the cops who are afraid a careful investigation into corruption in the ranks of the LHCPD would end with him losing his job. Good cops welcome investigation if they have nothing to hide. "

WING-MAN wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:57 PM:

" Fed up ….I think you’re full of beans if you did have your arrest on tape you would be playing it on youtube cuz that’s the way you roll….. "

Vicki wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:05 PM:

" Whatever - I never mentioned anything about a ticket so why would you even make such a comment? I can't even believe that you specified the mooring ticket when my post had nothing to do with that. You need to chill out a bit! "

Vicki wrote on Jul 24, 2008 6:14 PM:

" Steve, you missed the point completely, I was referring to irishman judging people. As far as my issue goes, I never went before the judge, got notice in San Diego of the hearing two hours before I was to appear!Obviously I could not make it so I was automatically deemed guilty. Irishman is always standing up for the judges, police etc. I found it interesting that he stated differently in this post. As he stated there are those in the judicial system that have not played by the rules and got caught. Why would you jump all over me about that? Are you somehow involved with the judicial system and are offended when someone questions the integrity of it? "

Good for you wrote on Jul 24, 2008 5:14 PM:

" Fed up. What happened to you seems to happen often. It is such a shame that this city has a person like that on the bench. Good for you for speaking up, the more who are aware and speak up means we can finally get a good person on the bench. Maybe a good former prosecutor who will not let the real bad guys go but will uphold the fundamentals of the US and Arizona Constitution. If possible we might even get someone on the bench who has not been reprimanded by the state. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 24, 2008 5:05 PM:

" There are plenty of complaints against BHC police, MCSO and Kingman. LHCPD does a wonderful job compared to the lack of experience, professionalism and intelligence demonstrated in other cities. We are just the only city with a silly newspaper forum w/o accountability so the same disgruntles post over and over. And I cannot say more or I risk MY position. "

CalHav wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:49 PM:

" DesertCOP seems to think that one person is behind this who Police thing. Amazing the power of ONE Person then. Because there are plenty of post on the internet, California Papers, Radio Shows, Travel Sites about the Police Problem. That one person must be better the Paul Revere in what it has effected. So if there are actually people so narrow minded to think ONE person is behind all this, it is now wonder they see everyone as lowlifes and criminals. Must be the roids. So Vicki, you story is well known. Keep it up, eventually it will reach the proper ears. Maybe even get some Judicial Oversight. That is when the Cops, stop sleeping with Judges who are sleeping with other judges. They really think people are stupid. "

Fed Up wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:41 PM:

" Vicki, I'm with you. We has a friend get sited unjustly, We had a video of the Incident, Yet Clyde would not admit it. Evidence, truth and facts don't matter in his court. Just the one sided testimony "

Cop lover wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:05 PM:

" Who hates cops? I love cops, HONEST cops. I believe through careful observation of the courts that LHCPD does not have enough HONEST COPS. Why dont people complain about MCSO, Kingman PD, BHCPD, State Patrol? Only one other Judge in Mohave county gets the amount of bad press as the one in LHC and that is for good reason.
So those who think that everyone is cop bashing are wrong. People are trying to HELP the GOOD cops by getting rid of the BAD ONES. Again, this a belief based on HUNDREDS of HOURS of court observation. I cannot say more than that or I risk my position "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 24, 2008 4:01 PM:

" So now RM is me too? Geez, ""I smell a"" you need to get off the computer and go get a life! Might cheer ya up a bit. "

steve wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:32 PM:

" Vickie, you last comment "unless you were there you have no right to stand and make judgement" explains your mentality completely. I can assure you the judge was not there either and without a doubt, your reasoning remains and the only thing that would change any iota of your opinion would be a video and audio tape being taken of each event and presented to the courts. GET OVER IT! it is water under the bridge and get on with your life. Everyone is getting tired of hearing the same bla-bla-bla! "

Arrest drunk boaters - drunks kill people wrote on Jul 24, 2008 1:09 PM:

" I don't know how many drunks kill on the water but I think about 50,000 a year die on our highways due to DUI. OUI with a boat is not funny and people do and will continue to die. How many deaths due to OUI on Havasu? OUI check points save lives so if you must be drunk on the water do it in your bathtub please. Does OUI with a boat make you macho? If so you must have a little short one.

This OUI check point was at the Needles bridge - miles and miles from LHC so why are the cop haters bashing LHCPD - because the local LHC cop haters have it in for LHCPD and post this drivel thanks to this fish wrapper paper.

This paper lets this cop hating and bashing get out of control - gives the impression that LHC is just a big trailer park full of meth freaks.

People read this from all over and laugh at the assinine comments - so sad. "

I smell a... wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:49 AM:

" JM, does it hurt to reach around like that and pat yourself on the back? does it rat? "

Whatever wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:47 AM:

" yeah, yeah Vicki, we all know about your poor little mooring tix. Get over it and move on. Life is too short! "

Vicki wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:31 AM:

" Irishman, Did you actually acknowledge that some law enforcement personnel are flawed and in some cases do not make fair and legal decisions? Or, were you just saying only others have been repremended for improper acts while presiding as a judge, but the judicial representatives in Havasu are perfect? How do you think those other judges got disbarred, in jail or kicked off the bench? It is because citizens stood up for their rights and complained enough until someone finally took action. As I have said many times before, most law enforcement personnel do a good job and do it well but as you stated, some do not and some get caught and prosecuted. It is possible that all complaints are not valid but unless you were there and have personal knowledge of every aspect of an event, you have no right to stand in judgement of them. "

JM wrote on Jul 24, 2008 10:21 AM:

" "REALITY CHECK", Well done!! That was a pretty good reality check for Mr Havasu. "

Reality Check wrote on Jul 24, 2008 9:10 AM:

" Mr. Havasu seems to have a real axe to grind. His idiotic statements only prove that people like him are the problem and obviously so far removed from reality that they must seek to silence those who make intelligent and objective rebuttals to their statements. Here is Mr. Havasu’s post in rebuttal to my comments:

" REALITY CHECK- in your last post you seem to be addressing your diffrentces with a number of the forum posters, that seems to put you in the minority, majority rules, so take your soap box somewhere else! "

It is unbelievable to me that someone who professes that nearly every problem in this city is related to corrupt judges, corrupt police or censoring by the newspaper would, when challenged, immediately state that I should take my “soap box somewhere else”. Before Mr. Havasu gets too upset and states he never said anything about censorship I would like to point the readers to the following posts:
thegame wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:14 AM: " Be careful now if you explain any evidence or negative facts about this city they’ll delete the comment or the article. "
Mr. Havasu wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:43 AM: " THE GAME- Your right, we wouldn't want to rock the boat now would we! "
Seems to me Mr. Havasu shares the same belief as thegame. If not perhaps he can explain.

Now for Mr. Havasu’s assumption that because I have pointed out flaws in posts by four different people that somehow I am in the minority. I hate to burst your bubble again but your ramblings just don’t stand up to facts. Categorizing the post made by unique names (not the repetitive babble of the same person) into three categories you will discover the following:

People in favor of the check points: 33 (51%)
People not in favor of check points: 21 (32%)
People with no clear opinion on check points: 11 (17%)

Opps, dear Mr. Havasu – who is in the minority now?

By the way, Mr. Havasu, just because your comments are not in alignment with my opinions I would never ask you to be silenced. It is thinking like yours that would lead us into the very police state that you seem to fear so much. Maybe you can get a political position in a country like China where differing opinions are routinely suppressed. You may be a much happier person. "

Irishman wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:33 AM:

" Simple question. Since when does a law degree make someone competent or honest? I can name numerous people with law degrees that are in jail, are going to jail, have been to jail or have been kicked off the bench or disbarred. A law degree does not make someone all knowing and honest. Most politicians have law degrees so what does that tell you. "

rivercheetah wrote on Jul 24, 2008 8:26 AM:

" To Havasu Spender, That was a great idea, I went to the web site, and took the course, and boy do you learn alot, I've been boating for over 25 years, and learned stuff the right way , NOT THE WAY I WAS TAUGHT. No matter how good you think you boat this will teach you alot. Happy and safe boating.
P.S. before you go write back to me, my wife was ran over by a boat 6 years ago, and yes she is still alive, and that why I think its a good idea. "

I smell a.... wrote on Jul 24, 2008 6:47 AM:

" RAT, for what seems to be the millionth time, if the moderator flip the switch so that only one posting per day per IP was to happen you would find that YOU are in the minority about the police and Judges. Vicki and Cal/Hav, MCJW, and others have been posting for awhile so your idea that only one person has a problem with Havasu is silly on its face and stupid as it's base. "

Vicki wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:44 PM:

" It seems to me that some postings against the checkpoint was just that, against the idea of a checkpoint. I do not believe anyone advocates boating or driving under the influence, however some posters immediately turned their comments into that. I have an issue with it because it does tie up a lot of resources in one spot and it is somewhat like pulling people over for no reason other than to see if there might be a reason to site them. As for making the lake safer, yes it is positive to remove people who are BUI but what about all the other types of people who cause accidents or injury due to their actions? It is a scary thought that anyone can buy a 100 mile an hour plus boat and just go out and drive it without any knowledge of boating rules, regulations or laws. And what about all of those jet skis blasting randomly in every direction, many of whom have no concept or idea of what they are doing or worse yet how they affect others on the lake. We need law enforcement to enforce the laws and to protect us from those who break the laws, rules and regulations. However, do we really need them to utilize their time funneling people into a check point just in case those people may be in violation of something? It is a fine line and certainly worth questioning and debate. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:23 PM:

" ME- dont waste your breath. There is one poster (under a million different names) that rec'd an 'unjustified ticket' from a 'corrupt cop' and saw a 'lawless judge.' The same person will post under every article every minute of every day. Don't bother engaging them in intelligent discussion. There is none. "

ME wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:11 PM:

" I have posted about things that had nothing to do with the cops or judge, nor was there anything wrong with the post, but it did not get on here. at times, my name didn't match my post. I don't run the newspaper, therefor I cannot judge them "

Havasu City wrote on Jul 23, 2008 5:08 PM:

" While some LHC Officers may have participated in the checkpoint, any violations weren't cited into Havasu Court. They would have been cited by State or County Officers into the appropriate County Justice Court. "

A reader wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:40 PM:

" did you read the entire article Havasu City? It's like Preago---it's in there.

ME---what part of "the editor will not post comments that pertain to specifics about the police or judge" don't you understand. They are posted out there in cyberworld but they won't post the website.

As for a solution? Fire the bad cops and reprimanded judges. You did ask the question. Just answering it . "

Don wrote on Jul 23, 2008 4:27 PM:

" Havasu City Read the last line of the article - In addition to the game and fish, the multi-agency effort includes the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Havasu City Police Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Now eat some crow. "

ME wrote on Jul 23, 2008 2:29 PM:

" YOU are part of the problem! give us some facts and what solution you made to change things?? hmmmm?? "

Havasu City wrote on Jul 23, 2008 2:05 PM:

" This article is about a checkpoint placed on the Colorado River near the I-40 Bridge. How exactly is the Lake Havasu City Police and/or Court involved in this? They have absolutely no involvement whatsoever in the checkpoint. It took place over 40 miles outside the City limits. Do people actually think that anything that takes place on Lake Havasu or the River involves them? Learn how to read a map and do a little research on "jurisdiction" before posting things that are irrelevant to the story, and only make your comments reinforce your personal vendetta against the City. "

Mauddib is right wrote on Jul 23, 2008 11:41 AM:

" Mauddib, exactly right! How simple the solution is. Hire someone who actually has a law degree, who has actually practiced law, someone who could actually represent anyone in the same court they want to sit as judge in.
MOST other cities in this state have adopted this measure. We are the largest city in this state without a Judge who has a law degree. Most city's have that as requirement #1.
Look at the damage to a city having someone on the bench without a law degree can do to us. Tourism down, and it aint coming back, the enduring reputation of Havasu a place to get unwarranted, and unearned fines (this means tickets that people did not deserve because they did nothing wrong). We get court that is a joke to the real Judges in the county who have to routinely overrule a joker in Havasu. We are left with the only Judge who was censured by the state last year. A judge, by his own words, puts court profit over justice.
For the slow minded. A lawyer does not mean a defense lawyer, it can also mean a former prosecutor as Bullhead City has. "

YOU wrote on Jul 23, 2008 10:29 AM:

" To ME< if you are not part of the solution then you are part of the problem. Seeing how you want to bury your head and live in blissful ignorance that makes you part of the problem. "

Fan of the founding fathers wrote on Jul 23, 2008 10:25 AM:

" Reality Check, obviously you are making an arguement against someone who has never posted. Who has said that cops and judges are the problem?

I have read that BAD cops and CORRUPT judges are the problem. Surely you would agree that good cops writing lawful tickets is a good thing and bad cops writing bad tickets who are rubber stamped by corrupt Judges or Judges who are ignorant of the law is a bad thing?

You may want to live in a society where the needs of many outweigh the needs of the few. However, I tend to follow the musings and beliefs of people like Adams, Washington, Jefferson and many others who feel that the rights of the individual are paramount in order to protect the majority as a whole. I believe it was Franklin that said "The man who trades freedom for security does not deserve nor will he ever receive either." I would much rather be aware of my surroundings on the water then be hassled by cops who are looking to cite for any reason to make a buck.
I would like the editors of this paper to read this qoute from Jefferson. "The basis of our government being the opinion of the people, the very first object should be to keep that right; and were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter." By the censoring of all the problems with the police and Judges the paper seems to do-are you part of the solution or part of the problem? Are you doing something that you can be proud of later in life? "

Mauddib wrote on Jul 23, 2008 9:49 AM:

" Reality Check,
If you really are as sad as you say, maybe your city should consider solving the problem that gets squawked about so very much, that you mention. Replace the already censured Magistrate Andres with an unbias jurist that's competent in due-process and ACTUALLY HAS A LAW DEGREE? "

Ban all boats Dubld wrote on Jul 23, 2008 9:19 AM:

" I didn't mean literally ban all boats you morons(to those who replied to my post). It was a sarcastic remark about the way so many people want or embrace the enforcement by agencies(the man), without a more realistic approach towards public view of these checkpoints. I would prefer the patroling of these waters over checkpoints, anybody agree?
P.S. Put that in your pipe & smoke it.
P.P.S. To Reality Check - I feel you are correct on many points but please spell personal right. It kind of degrades your comment. "

mynameismud wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:51 AM:

" " havasu,love it or leeeeeeeeeeeeavit!! "

Mr. Havasu wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:43 AM:

" THE GAME- Your right, we wouldn't want to rock the boat now would we! "

Mr. Havasu wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:39 AM:

" REALITY CHECK- in your last post you seem to be addressing your diffrentces with a number of the forum posters, that seems to put you in the minority, majority rules, so take your soap box somewhere else! "

think about it wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:39 AM:

" Try to imagine calling a friend on the lake and that cant talk because their boat just got ran over by a drunk boater going to fast and didnt see them. It is a devastating call knowing that there was children on this boat also. Luckily they were all able to dive out of the boat and rescued by an on looker, but the drama never ended there. The nightmares continued for months and it was hard for this local family to go the lake again. I say to the cops, keep up the good work. I want all of my friends and family to come off the lake alive and well. "

ME wrote on Jul 23, 2008 8:36 AM:

" I alsmost didn't read "realty check' as it appeared too long. now I am glad that I did. it is very informative and worth taking the time to read. many of you on here are only concerned about your own fun. please take into consideration, that others like to have fun too, only on a more responsable level. I have read many posts against the judge and cops, so I don't know why "the game" would write something so foolish. he/she must have a real beef with them regarding an "undeserved ticket". I still have yet to read any FACTS of wrongdoing. laws are put into place for obvious reasons. if you don't like the laws, run for office and get them changed. or just sit and stew and stew and stew until you are so beaten down, there is nothing left of you but mush. "

thegame wrote on Jul 23, 2008 7:14 AM:

" Be careful now if you explain any evidence or negative facts about this city they’ll delete the comment or the article. "

Cameras for all wrote on Jul 23, 2008 6:28 AM:

" I feel that for the safety of all citizens the police should have a mic and a camera on them at all times and it should be admitted as evidence everytime. It could be installed as part of the uniform. They have camera's for cars (wonder why LHCPD does not have them) and now available to clip on the weapons. This would work well if Judges are impartial and actually know the law. But then revenues would drop for the city so we can kiss that idea good bye.
Ah how I missed the unrelevant ramblings of often-wrong-lifegoeson. It is too bad the paper does not post the volumes of true incidents that have been recorded about our police here. I would be great to see the Rats scamper to try and defend it. As it is, some of us know the truth about how bad the cops ares here and then some of you read the local paper. "

Reality Check wrote on Jul 23, 2008 1:36 AM:

" It sad that so many of you posting to this site think everything has to do with corrupt judges and police or revenue generation. You are the same babies who just cannot take personnel responsibility for your actions. If you do something wrong you must pay the price. If there were no fines or punishments for breaking laws society would suffer. Stating anything different just proves your ignorance.

By the way, people do die by jumping off cliffs, or by drowning themselves, or by taking an excessive amount of drugs, or by performing any number of highly stupid activities that put themselves at risk. The difference here is those people who chose to drink to a point of having ANY level of impaired judgment and then operate a motorized vehicle are putting others at risk. For me, I prefer that our laws, our police and our judicial system work towards protecting the many from the few who demonstrate complete disregard for the safety and well-being of others. If any of you feel that your personnel liberties are more important than those of others, then you are selfish beyond belief and congratulations to your parents for raising a person with no sense of responsibility towards society.

To “real Reality”: Actually if cliff diving were outlawed and people continued to jump from cliffs, the fines levied by those infractions would in fact create revenue. So your argument is not just flawed it is completely wrong and rather stupid. Then again, if the police would start fining people for cliff diving, I am sure you would also complain about that.

To “protect you against yourself”: I never said that government should keep me safe from anything that can hurt my family. If you are going quote me, please get it right. I feel it is the responsibility of our police to enforce the laws that are in place which ensure our citizens can enjoy a life free from physical harm or thief of their property. These are acts that criminals afflict upon others. That’s right if you are drunk or impaired in any way and operate a boat, you are a criminal and the police should do everything in their power to eliminate your liberties so as to protect those who are NOT criminals.

To “CalHav” I did read your post very carefully one word at a time. You very clearly try to make excuses for different levels of intoxication. To me this is just another attempt of sliding responsibility. The facts are being intoxicated by any means (alcohol, illegal narcotics or prescription medications is cause for an OUI. So you need to get your facts right. The law needs to set limits that may seem arbitrary to you, but without these “arbitrary” limits how would enforce anything. And why is an open container still allowed on a boat but not in a car? It really quite simple, believe it or not, our laws do take into account personnel liberties and because people like to have a drink while boating (after all it is a recreational activity) the law allows responsible consumption of alcoholic beverages. If you chose to not partake responsibly, then you go to jail. This approach is the ultimate in personnel liberties. It too bad you can’t see it. Oh I forgot, with personnel liberties come personnel responsibilities; that seems to run many of you the wrong way.

To “Mr. Havasu”: Was my suggestion of placing check points where they might be most effective to obvious for you? How do you leap from a check point at both ends of the channel to every mile of the lake? Yes life is full of risk. We all take them every day, when we get in car, ride on a plane, cross the street or even take our boat out on the lake. It is my perspective, that someone driving a boat while intoxicated is every bit as dangerous as someone driving a car while intoxicated. Do you condone people driving their cars while intoxicated? If you do, perhaps you should be the one living in a rubber room because you are a danger.

To all of you: I truly hope and pray that none of you have to endear the devastation of the lost of a friend or family member due to the negligent conduct of another person. It is a sickening feeling that will haunt you for the rest of your life. Unfortunately some of you will need to experience this grief before you realize that nobody’s personnel liberties are so important that the life of an innocent person should be lost. For those that have the sense and sensibility to realize that proactive monitoring of dangerous situations is far better than cleaning up their potential destructions, I embrace you. "

lifegoeson wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:13 PM:

" Ban all boats: Who is "the man"? have another beer dude smoke more weed so your ready when the man comes for you who ever he is. "

Drunks control our lake wrote on Jul 22, 2008 9:38 PM:

" Don’t be haters I was at the launch ramp yesterday and witnessed the star from party-heat ….he looked on as a boat of drunk cal’s were towing a boat of drunk hav’s ….but do you think he did a safety inspection on them ‘NO WAY’….his camera crew wasn’t there to film it "

really wrote on Jul 22, 2008 4:43 PM:

" ban all boats, smoke more weed! "

Ban all boats wrote on Jul 22, 2008 12:05 PM:

" Lets ban ALL boats off of the lake, then that way everyone will be safe & the nice agencys that work SO hard to keep things orderly & lawful will be free to take care of REAL criminals. I like the idea of anarchy, kind of makes me excited to think of being a total menace to society. Wait, I know. Instead of banning all boats, how about we just put one officer from any agency on every boat - just to make sure everyones doing right. A checkpoint on the river is STUPID, imagine having maybe 2 boats to supervise the topock area, then 2 more down by sand bar, then 2 by the channel, then 2 down lake, then 2 by the dam. DAM, I think that would be kind of more intelligent than having a big ol' enforcement party at one spot. Checkpoints are just a nice way of saying we're pulling you over, no, no, you didn't do anything wrong but we're gonna check anyway. Screw that, I'm sick & tired of this area over-policing. No I'm not moving either, but I sure as hell can complain about it & vote to what extent I'm allowed. To all of you posters on this that say 'I welcome any checkpoint', O.K., how's 'bout I come over to your house & make sure everything 'checks out'? How 'bout your work? Or any other place you might be? That's where this is headed people. Wake up & take care of eachother & quit letting the man take over! "

TOPOCK JACK wrote on Jul 22, 2008 11:09 AM:

" Rat, I guess if I have an opion I'm suppose to leave? I'm not moving on so with that I'll restate, get a new check Point. NO I don't enjoy young people getting killed but porking up the bridge every summer weekend is getting old, find a new spot! Unfortunately I heard some young people died at the Needles bridge a few weeks ago, maybe they could alternate spots? This has been my little bit of paridise for years and I'm tired of the hassle factor at that birdge every weekend. Rat are you a retired or active law enforcement? You sure sound like "the man." Or maybe you own the white house on the river? Either way your missing the my point. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:59 AM:

" Before the assumptions and accusations start-(and the cop bashers DO accuse) Riverrat and Desertrat are NOT the same person. In fact, I may not agree with some of his opinions. I still think those that are so unhappy here might try living somewhere else, they may be surprised what they find "the grass is always greener". "

LIFEGOESON wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:57 AM:

" WATER COPS: Guess you and the rest of the crybabies don't know as much about the law as you want to think you do. Fish and game is a law enforcement agency: http://www.boat-ed.com/az/handbook/enforce.htm

The boating laws of Arizona are enforced by Arizona Game & Fish Department officers, county deputy sheriffs, municipal officers, park rangers, and any other state-commissioned law enforcement officers. The officers have the authority to stop and board vessels to check for compliance with state laws. The U.S. Coast Guard has federal enforcement authority on all federally controlled waters.

When hailed by an officer, the operator of a vessel must immediately stop and maneuver in such a way as to permit the officer to come alongside.
Failure to obey an order or to comply with an officer will result in an enforcement action up to and including arrest.
Officers may issue citations and may order an operator of a vessel back to shore to correct a violation. Some Arizona waterways—like the Colorado River—are shared with other states. On these shared waterways, laws from these other states apply—as well as federal regulations. To ensure that you are obeying all applicable laws, make sure you are knowledgeable about all the laws and regulations for the specific waterway you are using.
Officers also may establish checkpoints on the waterways to ensure public safety.

Same for BLM rangers they as well as FISH/GAME officers are state certified law enforcement officers and yes BLM rangers can cite you for speed on the road thats why they have citataion books in their trucks. "

ME wrote on Jul 22, 2008 10:36 AM:

" Exactly, SERVE AND PROTECT OUR CITIZENS. not BOW DOWN to the criminals. police are here to ENFORCE the LAWS. They don't make the laws. is that really so hard to understand. u r right, it can't be both ways. do u want law and order or do u want anarchy???? sorry if I spelled that wrong but u know what I mean. it seems that u are only concerned about tickets on the water, why is that? YOU CAN'T GO BACK IN TIME TO LAWLESSNESS. "

Water Cops wrote on Jul 22, 2008 7:10 AM:

" When did the Fish & Game become Water Cops ? "

Things that make you hmmm wrote on Jul 22, 2008 6:27 AM:

" I am more concerned about the loss of freedom and rights, the police who feel empowered to abuse those rights, and insane idea that one must give up freedom to have security.
The public have phones that work on the lake and river. They can call if they spot a problem. The cliff diving and fumes from boat have been for more deadly over the years then has drunken boating. Safety checks done on the shore at the launch are for more effective because everyone is checked out.
Rat, please stop being an apologist for bad police procedures design solely to generate revenue.
As for your ponder this comment. I give you something to ponder. Do we want police who feel they need to make arrests and generate fines to jusify thier jobs? Do we want cops who feel the pressure of needing to make so many arrests a month to justify a job salary? How much would crime magically drop if cops dropped the score card?
Also ponder this, the first part of "to serve and protect" is to SERVE. "

thegame wrote on Jul 22, 2008 5:38 AM:

" They get done on all the partiers that come here and yet when they don’t come here they still complain…can’t have it both ways. "

Havasu Spender wrote on Jul 21, 2008 10:16 PM:

" I'm not here for the debate. Everything would be a lot better if there were a requirement to take a boating safety course before legally operating a watercraft of any type. (This would be especially helpful for those who rent pontoons and PFCs w/o any experience.)
Please go to boatsafe.com, even if you are experienced - you will be surprised at how much you learn. It's easy (as long as you have high-speed internet,) and can be completed in modules that only take 5 to 20 minutes each. Do one every night and a week later you'll be a much more knowledgeable boater and we'll all have a better time out there.
For ten bucks more, they'll even send you a certificate that confirms your completion of the course, which, I guarantte you, will make your Coast Guard Annual Inspection go alot more smoothly if you keep up on those.
Remember, even if you're sober, others in the water aren't - don't just designate a driver, designate an aft and (if possible) a second foreward spotter (I have my kids do it - keeps them involved and teaches what I will expect of them when they ask to have a few friends out and use the old man's boat in a few years.) "

ponderthis wrote on Jul 21, 2008 6:15 PM:

" Who pays law enforcement? Taxes? should we increase everyones taxes, to pay the rising cost of every city entity or should we collect from those who break the law? If no one broke the law we would not need cops.hmmmmm "

Riverrat wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:37 PM:

" You people who are worried about the money are terrible. How about the people that are saved by what the cops are doin. It seems that you have no interest in the safety of the children and young adults that cop here. Its very troubling to see how you people disregard the interest of the State, County and Cities who are continually sued because of the water out there. Try looking at it another way. If you can. "

Riverrat wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:33 PM:

" Hey Jim,
Your statement about the Parker Strip is funny. There are more cops in Parker-La Paz County than in the entire Mohave County. You got La Paz Deputies, Arizona Game and Fish, Federal Wildlife, San Bernardino, Riverside County just on the water. Then you can add to the streets DPS, Parker PD, CRIT PD, just in the 20 miles from Parker Dam to Parker City...There are alot of cops down there. "

Riverrat wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:26 PM:

" Geez TopockJack seems like its time for you to move on then or maybe you enjoy the news of young drunk people dying at the bridge. cuz lord we dont want the cops to show up now and then and attempt to save any lives. Good luck to where ever you happen to go "

RiverRat wrote on Jul 21, 2008 5:23 PM:

" Hey MotoMikey its painfully obvious that you have never been effected by the devestating results of a drunken boater. Why dont you go to youtube and take a look at what damage a drunk can do either by land or see "

havasu fan wrote on Jul 21, 2008 3:58 PM:

" Motomikey, Havasu is a man made lake. That's what the dam down at Parker is all about. "

utah pa wrote on Jul 21, 2008 3:53 PM:

" Everyone who complains about law enforcement, on land or water, always says it's about the money (fines). Fines are designed to make people obey the rules so the majority of people can coexist and do so safely. If fines are so devestating to you the simple solution would be to have your act together. You can find out what is required to pass a safety inspection, go get it and have it aboard. Don't drink till you're parked or home. If you do drink stay under the limit. If you want to deny those son of a guns the cash get it organized. "

TOPOCK JACK wrote on Jul 21, 2008 2:53 PM:

" I bought a place in Topock years ago to get away from all the over enforcement, but now it seems it's come to roost in my back yard. I'm tired of the check point at Topock bridge! Find a new spot boys! For two summers now I've seen you guys set up at the white house on the water at the bridge and its getting old. Who ever the owner of that house is he needs to get a life. I guess its entertaining to let johnny law take over his property for the day and watch all the drama! I don't drink and boat, I just don't like the hassle factor. My boat gets the Full Coast Guard safty inpection every year so I'm in full compliance. Still I believe it's about the money! So move along now, move along....back to the Channal or Parker or where ever. "

follow the mo eu wrote on Jul 21, 2008 1:03 PM:

" Note: channel arrests are being closely scrutinized so now the "check points" get going. Basically, if you don't like how we collect money we will just find another. But they WILL collect the money. "

motomikey wrote on Jul 21, 2008 12:57 PM:

" Screw havasu lived there 30 yrs and left. colorado river is international waterway not a checkpoint trap or people to say what speeds boats should go. you people should go to a man made lake. as long your being a good curtesy sea man you shoould be left alone!!! "

motomikey wrote on Jul 21, 2008 12:49 PM:

" Screw havasu lived there 30 yrs and left. colorado river is international waterway not a checkpoint trap. as long your being a good curtesy sea man you shoould be left alone!!! "

Irishman wrote on Jul 21, 2008 12:38 PM:

" Apparently some folks just can't seem to get a handle on how police discretionary powers work so I'll try once again to explain it. In some cases the police have the power to not arrest or cite but to give a warning. The line officers are employees of the city and the citizens. If they are given an order that there is zero tolerance (this type of order usually comes down because the local residents have told the mayor and council they want something done about a problem) they no longer have that discretionary power. In the case of DUI's and BUI's, this is a very hot topic state wide. DUI's and BUI's kill and maim people, therefore there are no discretionary powers. All law enforcement is charged with curbing drunks behind the wheel. The BA was lowered from .10 to .08 because statistics show that at .08 people are impaired. At a .08 you may still be able to function normally but reaction time is slowed down. As an example, a person I know went to jail on a .08 because he killed a PWC rider that was a .24 and fell off his PWC in front of the guys boat. He was not driving recklessly, he was not going at a high rate of speed and he was not at fault. Mayby if he hadn't been .08 and the PWC rider had not been a .24, they both would have reacted quicker and the whole thing avoided. Two families paid dearly for mixing booze and boats. Keep up the check points on the water and the road, I don't want my family or friends to be fatal statistics. "

LIFEGOESON wrote on Jul 21, 2008 2:29 AM:

" cal/hav what hwy do you drive on that you can only do 70? I have yet to find that one. I'm not for any high speed zone on the lake/river high speed should only be allowed in boat races. some day the boating laws in az will be caught up to time. And to who ever said parker strip has less law enforcement........don't count on that they are out there. I have to laugh at all the calls I get from people saying there are speeding boats out here that almost my child on their pwc why are there no police patroling? Just because you don't see a police boat in your area does not mean they are not too far away. "

ME wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:46 PM:

" Since I started blogging I have not seen one PROVEN fact about corrupt judges or cops. I am all for weeding out the bad apple but I would prefer to see a list of truths before passing judgement. I would also prefer to have a safe lake while boating for my family and friends. there are people who throw caution to the wind while boating and drinking. you can't have it both ways. the police are here to keep us safe and help us in time of need. who else are you going to call in an emergancy at noon or midnight and they will respond. think about that as you go to sleep tonight and be assured that the cops and military care about your safety. unless you are one of those that are committing the crimes. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:07 PM:

" Agree with your post irishman, altho there are some idiots who think we are the same person. They must be the pot stirrers-the people who are always miserable and running around trying to convince others the sky is falling. What a sad, sad existence...... "

CalHav wrote on Jul 20, 2008 7:20 PM:

" Lifegoes on. I can't agree with you more about speed. Why can you go 85 on the water and only 70 on the fastest Highways. Most of our lakes in Calif have a 35 mph speed limit. Lake Elsinore has a High Speed lane for the Macho Junkies. You know to stay away from that. If you want off shore speeds then go off shore, where you can run into a Tanker instead my little 25'
Honestly I think speed kill much more than the 3 beers someone had. I am all for a SPEED LIMIT. Look how nice Topock is now that you have the speed limit up there. Have a designated high speed zone so i can stay away from it. Who's with me on this? "

to jim wrote on Jul 20, 2008 2:58 PM:

" jim, the lake north of Davis Dam is great to "

ah Irish is wrong again wrote on Jul 20, 2008 2:37 PM:

" ah Irish, it may not be the cops and Judges that write the laws but you yourself have said that police have discretion. It was the elected officials who hired the Judge, it was also that judge who told those same elected officials that his goal was to make his court profitable. "

Jim wrote on Jul 20, 2008 2:33 PM:

" This is why I bought a place in NorCal and NOT LHC. I can do what I want and as long as I don't act stupid and call attention to my self I wont have law enforcement breathing down my neck.

IMO the typical boater these days has much less sense than boaters who have been frequenting the Colorado river area for decades.

Try the Parker area. It's not perfect but from my experience it offers friendlier people(boaters), smoother water(yes its quite a bit smaller), and less law enforcement when compared to the LHC area. "

Mr. Havasu wrote on Jul 20, 2008 11:59 AM:

" REALITY CHECK- How about we have a check point every mile of the entire lake so you can spend most of your day being checked, what a stupid statement!
Life has it's risks, If you want total safety go live in a rubber room! "

Bookem wrote on Jul 20, 2008 10:41 AM:

" OK, wake up everyone. While the advocates speak "Safety" as the need for enforcement actions on the water and/or anywhere else, "Safety" is generally the catalyst only. The real general motivator for new laws is Money. The state needs billions to compensate for the reduced fuel usage by the motoring public and then comes the "need" for Photo Radar, one cent sales tax increase or fuel tax increases. Not enough money coming in from DUI's? Lets break it down in degrees while increasing the fines for each increment. Thus higher BA or the more under the influence, the higher the fine. BUT, its not the BLITZED drunk that kills the most every year, its the low BA% who believe they are not drunk or rather under the influence. Everyone can see and avoid the complete drunk so he normally kills himself. Yet, he will pay the heaviest if he is caught. Boiled down no matter how you look at it, IT THE MONEY> "

Irishman wrote on Jul 20, 2008 8:49 AM:

" Some of you folks just fill my heart with sadness. The cops and the judges don't write the laws, your Federal, State and local lawmakers do that. The police and the courts are charged with enforcing those laws. In these forums they are damned if they do and damned if they don't. If there is an accident and someone is injured, you scream "Where were the cops?" If they do proactive enforcement such as checkpoints, you start screaming that they are corrupt and just lining the cities coffers. The total idiocy of all this just boggles the mind. There are a few that constantly stir the pot and I can only guess it is for your own ulterior motives. With so many law experts that post in here, you would think that now and then someone would post something worthwhile. but alas that does not happen. "

ex-brother wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:41 PM:

" When are they set up checkpoints at the firestations? The firemen are always getting the brake from the police, because they are .brother's.. "

common sense wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:32 PM:

" To Cal/Hav, if you are going to recite the law, know what you are reciting. A person who has a Commercial license and has a BAC of .04 is only presumed intoxicated if they are currently operating a commercial vehicle. If they have a commercial license and are operating their personal vehicle the standard is still a .08 BAC. The .04 only applies when they are in a commercial vehicle and is not even used in operating a recreational watercraft. Secondly, in the State of Arizona it is a standard for both watercraft and vehicles that if you are a .08 BAC or above it is presumed that you are impaired. This is the standard. If you are above .05 and below a .08 the fact may be considered with other competent evidence to determine guilt or innocence. If you are under a .05 it is presumed that you are not impaired. Read ARS 28-1381 and ARS 5-395. In the case of a BAC under .08 you can still charge under the law with "Impaired to the slightest degree." So to all of those who are against this checkpoint, talk to the four families that have lost or injured loved ones in this part of the river or anywhere on the lake due to impaired operators. One death is too many. I don't care if you are a 200 pound man or a 95 pound woman, if you have a BAC of .08 or above you are presumed to be driving/operating while under the influence, its the law, if you don't like it lobby to have it changed. Until then don't drink and boat/drive, DESIGNATE! Look up the cases, most of the injuries and accidents on the lake/river are due to impaired operators. As for this checkpoint, only northbound traffic was stopped and it was advertised in the local papers, as is required by law. Contact the AZ Game and Fish Office and check. As to this story in the paper, it is "disappointing" that out of 182 stops 12 were charged with operating under the influence, it is disappointing that there was even one. These checkpoints and other enforcement actions saves lives. Those that say it is about revenue in terms of fines, you are sadly mistaken. Check into what it costs to prosecute these cases in way of county attorneys, police officer time, and court support staff. It is a losing deal for the cities and counties in the terms of what fines they collect vs the cost to deal with the case. But it is done to stop the cost involved in dealing with the collisions that are a result of intoxicated operators in terms of emergency services and lives. These arrests are made to send the message to the public and the person, don't drink and boat. It is proven that will save lives. Those of you that doubt it, give me a quote of how many fatality collisions on the lake/river in the last year not involving intoxicated operators. Don't go by what you heard, pull the police reports and then tell me. As with any law enforcement contact, if you are not breading the law, then what does a few minutes of your time hurt to ensure the safety of all. "

LIFEGOESON wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:30 PM:

" CALHAV: I understand what your saying. I got that information from different web sites on az boating laws online. The laws may not be written the way we want them to be but how else to get the point across to the stupid ones out there that drive drive their boat on top of a dock doing over 80mph causing one patient to be on life support the rest of their life and another parralized from the neck down other then to hit them in the purse and jail time. There are boating classes offered by many different law enforcement departments how many of these drunks think that they know so much about life and laws that don't even bother to take the course? We can't set up check points at every launch ramp that would only create a line of traffic into the streets backing up traffic and to those of you that think it can be done not every one launches from a public launch ramp. You drive out london bridge road and see how many places you can pull your truck up to the water and drop your pwc in. You drive along the river on the parker strip and across the river in calif and tell me the same thing. Just like law enforcement has to set up check points on the roads they now have to do it on the water because people just don't listen or learn or care. "

thanks calhav wrote on Jul 19, 2008 3:40 PM:

" cal/hav and the others who are fighting for a clean, corrupt free Justice system in Havasu should be praised, not scorned. I can only think of one type of person who would not want a corrupt free justice system and that would be the corrupt. "

sad day wrote on Jul 19, 2008 1:16 PM:

" it is a sad day for freedom when police success is measured in how many more arrest and fines are made instead of how many less deaths and accidents occur.
It is too bad that the reporter chose to emphisize the negatives about the community like police citation operations instead of positives like people have safe legal fun. "

anti-CalHav wrote on Jul 19, 2008 11:44 AM:

" if CalHav has sayeth, it must be true. All hail to the grumpy old man. "

Dubld wrote on Jul 19, 2008 11:05 AM:

" Gosh, what soapbox comments...why not just type the whole A.R.S.?
Knowing that there is more than one way to get to the water, I still think it would be a good idea to do a little extra at launch sites just to inform about safety with your vessel. Boating while intoxicated is illegal but commenting on the severity and oversight of these checks and/or the saturation of law enforcement on the the water is not. Accidents happen, intelligent people know how to police themselves. Most locals have the insight to know that a huge weekend is dangerous if not a regular one. Patrols work great when done right but a checkpoint in an open waterway? I just disagree with it. "

Mauddip wrote on Jul 19, 2008 10:44 AM:

" I recently atteneded a Republican political function where Sheriff Tom Sheahan announced that his office had just recieved a $950,000 grant for water patrol. He jokingly complained "why couldn't they throw in an extra 50K and make it an even million"

Maybe we can see a follow-up story on the grant. "

mike from Temecula wrote on Jul 19, 2008 9:01 AM:

" The check point was at I 40 which is not Lake Havasu. I believe the boaters there are more relaxed about drinking, and the type of boater from Needles is different than Lake Havasu boaters. I see nothing wrong with a check point as long as these high numbers are being caught. However when it is under control it should be adjusted and assessed regularly. "

Steve wrote on Jul 19, 2008 7:33 AM:

" 1 out of 15? How about 1 out of 5!!! "

CalHav wrote on Jul 19, 2008 6:31 AM:

" Lifegoes on. Reading your own post .08 is CONSIDERED intoxicated. And if your 20 your inotxicated at 01. Then 05% and .08% is not technically intoxicated but it is still operating a boat while under the influence. Which is my argument. There is a difference between INTOXICATED and Under the Influence.
If your a California Firefighter OFF DUTY you TECHNICALLY are Intoxicated at .04 Which is How many beers? Because they are required class B Licence
So if you are technically INTOXICATED at .04 for one then why are you Not TECHNICALLY Twice as intoxicated at .079? It all about the money . The fine schedule shows that. It's like being a little pregnant. Otherwise if it were truly about safety they would make the fine the same for a OUI as a Double Secret SUPER DUI. Hitting the pocket book really works. Look what it has done to Havasu "

ME wrote on Jul 19, 2008 5:41 AM:

" I hope you all know, that I was just kidding when I said "I am with calhav". It wouldn't surprise me, if laws are passed (everywhere) to keep achohol off water crafts. because some idiots can't be responsable, everyone pays the price "

Me wrote on Jul 18, 2008 11:10 PM:

" wow! If they put one of those check points in the channel the counts would more then quadruple. Lets think about this a minute. If they are oui on the lake that means it will become a dui When they pull their boat out now the whole town is at risk. I have seen these people when they come to HMR after a boat gets them our they hit an object ( car tree house wall ditch) or the time we have to spend with them to detox them. when we could be helping someone who really needs the help and room. If you don't like the rules stay of the water. If you want to party stay home. "

I can see it now wrote on Jul 18, 2008 11:04 PM:

" You are now leaving the freezone. Checkpoint charlie signifies you are entering the soviet republic of Havasu "

LIFEGOESON wrote on Jul 18, 2008 8:44 PM:

" keeping it safe: GET A CLUE not all pwcs are launched at a ramp so take your ramp idea home to bed with you. Guess you don't get out much to see alot of people launch at beaches where they park the truck only takes two to carry a pwc from the truck a few feet away from the water. IT'S ABOUT KEEPING PEOPLE WHICH COULD BE YOUR LOVED ONES OR FRIENDS ALIVE!

CAL/HAV: You may want to go online and check the boating laws:

Boating While Intoxicated is Illegal

Photo courtesy U.S. Coast GuardAs with drinking and driving, boating while intoxicated is illegal. Both the Coast Guard and individual states enforce BWI laws, and violators face substantial fines, losing their operator privileges, and jail time. The Coast Guard and state law enforcement agencies have concurrent jurisdiction,meaning they can both enforce BWI laws. If the Coast Guard determines a person is boating while intoxicated, they will terminate the voyage and escort the boat to the nearest mooring. They can arrest the person, detain them until they sober up, or turn them over to state or local authorities. In my experience, most boaters determined to be under the influence were turned over to state or local authorities.


Although there isn't an "open container" law for boats, there is definitely a law on operating a boat while under the influence. It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage. If a person under the age of 21 has a BAC of .01% or more they are not allowed to operate a boat or any type of water motorized vehicle. In most states there is also a "zero-tolerance" policy for minors on beaches or boats drinking.

If someone is arrested for have a BAC of .08% or higher, they are considered legally intoxicated while operating a boat and will be arrested immediately. They will most likely be charged with operating a vessel under the influence and sentenced to up to one year of jail time and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Anyone who is arrested with a BAC between .05% and .08% is not technically intoxicated but it is still operating a boat while under the influence and the police can charge you with something like that legally.

For more information on your DWI case, contact the Austin DWI Lawyers of Morales and Navarrete at 866-812-4596.



It's the Law: On the Water
Alcohol and Drugs
Arizona law prohibits anyone from operating a power-driven vessel while under the influence of alcohol or any drug that causes the person to be even slightly impaired. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction time. Alcohol contributes to nearly one-third of all fatal boating accidents nationwide.

The State of Arizona passed an operating under the influence (OUI) bill that mirrors the state’s vehicular driving under the influence (DUI) laws and penalties. Effective January 1, 2009, the OUI law is as follows:

A person is considered to be operating under the influence of alcohol if he or she has blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% but less than 0.15% as determined by a test of his or her breath, blood, or urine. “Extreme OUI” is a BAC of 0.15% but less than 0.20%, and “Super Extreme OUI” is a BAC of 0.20% and higher.
If convicted of “OUI,” a person can be fined up to $1,450 and jailed up to 10 days.
If convicted of “Extreme OUI,” a person can be fined up to $2,700 and jailed up to 30 days.
If convicted of “Super Extreme OUI,” a person can be fined up to $3,150 and jailed up to 45 days.
Subsequent convictions and if convicted of “Aggravated OUI,” persons are subject to even more severe penalties.
By operating a vessel on Arizona waters, you have consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs if arrested by a law enforcement officer for alleged violations under Arizona Watercraft Statutes.

You people crack me up you complaine when law enforcement does their job and when they don't. Just mind your own business and stay home and watch tv if the stupid drunks get caught who cares if it's in the water or on the ramp the fact is they got caught and may have prevented a death. "

ME wrote on Jul 18, 2008 8:35 PM:

" I am with calhav. Just outlaw drinking on boats, the same as cars! Of course the stops aren't all about safety devices, any idiot knows that. You check them at the channel, they go boating and get drunk and hit innocent people. Happens all the time. It doesn't always come out in the paper though. The more you drink, the more brave you become. and you should know your own limitations, depending on your size. "

Sick and tired of drunks wrote on Jul 18, 2008 7:48 PM:

" Here's a news flash. By law .08% IS DRUNK! And for the whiner who can take " 3 vicodine, smoke a joint, have an oxycotin" your drug use would be apparent, and you would be arrested for being impaired. A blood test would show the drugs presence. It's not just about blowing into a machine. Having a check-point before people launch would do nothing to stop someone from getting drunk on the water. The check points are a deterrent, in that someone who knows its there, is less likely to drink to excess. And the disappointment is that there were TOO MANY people arrested for OUI. IF there was a checkpoint and NO ONE was found drunk, the cops would be celebrating. "

Disappointed wrote on Jul 18, 2008 5:47 PM:

" "DISAPPOINTED ?" Not enough drunks, busts, or too many already. How about the reporter quoting the source so we know what he ment ? "

keeping it safe wrote on Jul 18, 2008 5:37 PM:

" If it was about safety it would be on the ramps before the launch. If its about money it takes place where they can roll in the dough, like a check point.
If it was about keeping you safe they would outlaw things that have actually seem people killed like cliff jumping and patrol the near empty channel for things such as drownings. "

Mauddib wrote on Jul 18, 2008 5:27 PM:

" Mike,

This is Mohave County man. Probable Cause... Probable Cause...we don't need no stink'in Probable Cause :) "

CalHav wrote on Jul 18, 2008 5:26 PM:

" All watercraft, except sail-
boards and certain racing
shells or rowing sculls,
must have at least one
U.S. Coast Guard
approved personal flota-
tion device (PFD), type I, II,
III, or V, for each person on
board. readily accessible and must fit the intended wearer.
All watercraft 16 feet and longer shall have one type IV throwable PFD on board. IT CAN BE A CUSHION OR A RING. I keep my cushion pre-attached to a 50ft nylon rope bag so that I can pull some one in also. "

CalHav wrote on Jul 18, 2008 5:08 PM:

" Reaslity Check-Read my post again. Slowly-One word at a time. "I'm all for getting rid of drunks." There is a BIG difference between being intoxicated an blowing a .08 . Some of the guys I see on the River weigh about 250 - 5 beers in an hour won't get him an .08 yet a 160 fit guy with 3 beers will blow an .08. But you see these safety checks get the non "INTOXICATED" on the technicality that they "under the influence" Not impaired, but under the influence. What is amazing is I can take 3 vicodine, smoke a joint, have an oxycotin and not get caught at a checkpoint cause I won't blow anything above normal. And how about just plain stupid. Which they had a test for that.
If it is such and Issue, and they are really SOOOOO Concerned about our safety, why does the legislature not OUTLAW Drinking while driving a boat. Just like cars. NO OPEN CONTAINERS. Outlaw drinking in the channel too. Do safety checks at the ramps. Our lake out here do. Its because of the MONEY. Money from Liquor Tax, Money From Fines. It's not about the safety.

Drunkenness is the state of being intoxicated by consumption of alcoholic beverages to a degree that mental and physical faculties are noticeably impaired.

So if I don't meet the above definition WHY am I subjected to a Blood alcohol test. Sounds to me like 14/15 or 94% of the people subjected to the Check Point were NOT under the influence. They were disappointed cause they spent more on overtime than they earned. "

mike wrote on Jul 18, 2008 4:59 PM:

" beenboating.... It is ussually a cusion with two straps that can go around a person's arms. Most boats come with them. If someone fell overboars or just swimming and gets in trouble you "throw them a life safer". Remember the old folation ring on many comerical boats...the same idea. "

beenboating wrote on Jul 18, 2008 4:39 PM:

" what is a Type IV throwabel? I wasn't aware I need one on my boat. Anyone? "

mike wrote on Jul 18, 2008 4:18 PM:

" First I would like to know what probable cause these agencies have to stop and delay boaters that just happen to be transiting the river. I am all for getting the drunks off the water but not at the expense of delaying sober safe boaters. With all of the various agencies patrolling the lake they do a good job of getting the drunks off. Seems like there is a patrol ever mile or so. I believe those of us that boat sober and safe should retain our civil liberties. What they should of done was move the check point up on the bridge rather than under it and they would have scored much greater numbers. "

sassy wrote on Jul 18, 2008 3:50 PM:

" For once I agree with CalHav. I'm all for getting the stupid drunks off of the lake but certain conditions make it easy to blow a .08. I also feel if you get stuck in one of these checkpoints when it's 117 degrees plus, it is going to be frustrating. All I am saying is that there are other ways to get the unsafe drunks off of the lake. "

Roco wrote on Jul 18, 2008 3:34 PM:

" I am not a boater. Most boaters I know have a designated driver. But, what puzzles me about these checkpoints on the lake is why not have them at the bars in town? It seems to me that there are more people driving cars drunk than boaters, so which is more important? And if checkpoints on the lake are a "revenue earner", don't you think more revenue could be made if there were checkpoints near the bars also? Or is driving drunk not as much an issue as boating drunk? "

Nailed it wrote on Jul 18, 2008 3:32 PM:

" Real Reality hit it on the nail on the head. It has nothing to do with safety, it has to do with fines. If it were about safety they would do checks at the launch and outlaw cliff diving. How many people died on Lake Havasu from drunk boaters? Zero. How many died from jumping off cliffs, or because cops were too busy doing safety checks to patrol the channel watching for known suicide risks? "

Mauddib wrote on Jul 18, 2008 3:04 PM:

" We don't need ANY law enforcement involved in this problem. I say if you are stupid enough to get drunk on Lake Havasu in 115 degree heat, do us all a favor and dive into the cold water, you'll be cleaning up the gene pool. "

protect you against yourself wrote on Jul 18, 2008 2:55 PM:

" Reality check seems to think that the government should keep you safe from everything that could hurt his family. That is the type of narrow thinking that has led the government to take away your freedoms in order to "protect" you. Cal/hav is right about the .08 BAC. BTW I have not EVER been drunk and only have a glass of wine ONCE a year at Christmas. "

Desertrat wrote on Jul 18, 2008 2:43 PM:

" Reality Check - great post! Cannot agree more, for those wanting to drink, can anyone say 'designated driver'? "

Dubld wrote on Jul 18, 2008 2:42 PM:

" The numbers sound pretty normal to me. I was born here & use the water from Blythe to Laughlin recreationaly all the time. You'd get these results on any day. I prefer to drink when I'm on the water, it's what I like to do. Driving or boating while intoxicated can be dangerous but the debate still goes on - How much is too much? Do you want a policed society to the point where you have no freedom? Personaly, I won't operate a watercraft if I'm drinking but I'd like to have fun with friends & not be bothered at a checkpoint. Fine, have the proper safety items, have a sober driver. That still won't stop the harassment of people by law enforcement shakedowns like this & it still won't make an idiot that can't drive, drive any better. If it's about the safety, why not monitor the launches & verify people have those items when they're launching or outlaw alchohol altogether? It's all about the money. "

real reality wrote on Jul 18, 2008 1:50 PM:

" real Reality. SUDDENLY there were a rash of deaths on the lake due to intoxicated boating! NOT!!!

If the PD were interested in keeing people SAFE they would stop cliff diving. But that does not fill the courts with FINE money! "

Reality Check wrote on Jul 18, 2008 1:21 PM:

" Anybody who has an issue with check points has no business being on the lake to begin with. I am all for these people going somewhere else so my family and I can be safe. Drinking and operating any type of motorized vehicle simply don’t mix. If Sara, and others like Sara, want to endanger others then they deserve a wrath of punishment when they get caught. Also, as expected some of these posts immediately start slamming the cops and courts. You people are absolutely unbelievable. People who don’t break the law don’t need to worry about the police. And those of us who respect the laws and the safety of others are happy to have the police looking for those that don’t.

CalHav thinks that 1 in 15 boaters being intoxicated in no so bad. I would ask each of you to think how many boats to you past on a weekend afternoon. Probably 15 every minute. How does that make you feel? Virtually every minute you are underway, you are passing an intoxicated person operating a vessel capable of killing you and everyone else in your boat.

I say put as many check points as possible. How about at both ends of the channel? "

havasurunner wrote on Jul 18, 2008 1:14 PM:

" Hey About Time - People do not own lakes, lakes belong to the state. You calling it "our lake" - get real "

CalHav wrote on Jul 18, 2008 1:14 PM:

" Me..... That is the problem. A couple of beers in the heat,which leave less body flood for dilution and your over the top. Check how little it takes, There are alot BAC Calculators on line "

Clydes fund wrote on Jul 18, 2008 12:48 PM:

" Excellent post cal/hav. I guess post that reveal the follow he money are not allowed. I think we all know who is looking to replace a revenue stream. If you think this is about safety think again "

imamouse wrote on Jul 18, 2008 12:23 PM:

" actually, 1 in 15 sounds pretty calm doesnt it? I would have thought it would be more like 8 out of 15 - half of them drunk and the other half sober. Oh well. "

ME wrote on Jul 18, 2008 11:03 AM:

" I am all for check points; next time don't tell the boaters where you will be! I am catious, every time we go on the water as there are alot of inexpierenced boaters out there. add drinking to that and it is a death sentence to someone. sara, I hope you meant cold drinks as in sodas, etc. There is nothing wrong with having a beer or 2, but go overboard and you are asking for trouble. "

CalHav wrote on Jul 18, 2008 10:53 AM:

" I'm all for getting rid of drunks. But the fact that I had 3 beers and a sandwich (slows metabolism) in an afternoon which will get me to an .08 is not worth coming to Havasu. Now if I'm doing something stupid, driving reckless or cause reason to have them stop me. Go for it. But this random "safety" check is BS. Funny how they turned the number to make it seem high. 1 in 15. That 6.6% blew a .08. Most housewives who go to the store after a glass of wine would blow that.
Just found out that eating actually increases you BA because it slows the absorbtion of alcohol. In turn you don't get intoxicated but you blow higher. So I guy that drinks on an empty stomach, gets a better buzz but will blow a lower BA. Go figure. Next thing you know they will have checkpoints outside of Churches and nail you on your communion wine. "

I am for it wrote on Jul 18, 2008 10:31 AM:

" I like the check points. What is wrong with having the correct amount of life jackets. Havaing a throwable cushion or a fire supression device.

Good for the fish and game people!! "

About Time wrote on Jul 18, 2008 10:05 AM:

" It's about time we took control of our lake. To Sara and Whos fooling who, fine, stay away...that will be two less idiots that we have to watch out for. Don't you ever hear about how many people die each year on our lake and most of them are due to drinking and boating. A few years ago a kid fell of the back of a boat, the parents didn't know because they were intoxicated. It wasn't until much later in the day that they even realized he was gone and his body was found later in the week under the docks. So i'm sorry if our "gestapo menality" keeps you away, but we are trying to prevent more deaths. "

To sara wrote on Jul 18, 2008 9:13 AM:

" You must be one of those drunks driving around in your car or boat since drinking and driving go HAND IN HAND. Thanks for the warning that you types of criminals are out there. Are you listening to this, people?? Watch yourselves--these drunks will hurt you and your loved ones. Am I on a "No DRUNKS" soap box? Yep, I see the fall out every day. It's ugly. "

NO TOLERANCE FOR DRUNK CRIMINALS wrote on Jul 18, 2008 9:09 AM:

" Who cares about the tourists?? I am worried about me and my neighbors when I am out on the lake and we have inexperienced and drunk boaters out there. Who cares of they are tourists or locals? I say ticket and jail them all! NO TOLERANCE HERE. "

oodles wrote on Jul 18, 2008 8:22 AM:

" Good Job guys!I have never seen a checkpoint on the water, it seems like they would be too easy to avoid. "

WE NEED MORE wrote on Jul 18, 2008 8:07 AM:

" We need more!!!! Great job to the patrols! Boo for the drunks who are endangering our lives and the lives of our loved ones every day. "

Tom wrote on Jul 18, 2008 7:04 AM:

" There should be more of these checkpoints. How many times have you seen boats crowded with 10 or twelve people and just knew there weren't enough life jackets on board. "

sassy wrote on Jul 18, 2008 6:20 AM:

" Now this is not tourist friendly. I have nothing against law enforcement (my husband is a cop) but this will chase the boaters away. "

Sara wrote on Jul 17, 2008 11:14 PM:

" I find it disappointing the state is now taxing boating via checkpoints. Cold drinks and boating go hand in hand. Stop the gestapo mentality before it's too late! "

Whos fooling who wrote on Jul 17, 2008 10:52 PM:

" Thanks for the warning, guess we'll stay away this weekend too. Starting to look light Utah. "

Havasu Jim wrote on Jul 17, 2008 9:54 PM:

" Good for Game and Fish! I am all for removing boaters who drive drunk from out waterways! "

good to know wrote on Jul 17, 2008 9:41 PM:

" a) an arrest is not a conviction. b) any operation that involves fines thru the Havasu court is suspect- if it also includes the LHCPD it's suspicous.

Nice to know the honest police agencys are put there. "

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