Berks County law enforcement will be stepping up DUI enforcement efforts throughout the month of June, coinciding with high school graduations and summer celebrations. According to a release from the North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program, police will be conducting sobriety checkpoints, roving DUI patrols, and “COPS in SHOPS” operations across the county through June 29.
The initiative aims to curb both impaired driving and underage drinking during a time of increased activity among teens and young adults. Police are taking a zero-tolerance stance on both fronts.
“Police departments throughout Berks County congratulate the graduates of 2025,” the statement reads. “We want to remind those graduates police will take a zero tolerance policy for underage drinkers. That same zero tolerance policy will be employed for anyone who is stopped and found to be driving while impaired.”
Authorities warn that adults who serve alcohol to individuals under 21 will be arrested, and so will the underage individuals found drinking. The release also highlights the serious legal and emotional consequences of hosting underage drinking parties that result in accidents or fatalities.
In May, just two DUI checkpoints—one in Cumru Township and another conducted jointly by Eastern Berks Regional and Exeter Township Police—resulted in the removal of 25 impaired drivers from Berks County roads.
“Sobriety Checkpoints may be set up on many roadways within Berks County,” said Sergeant David Bentz, Enforcement Coordinator for the DUI program and a member of the Exeter Police Department. “Berks County law enforcement pledges to continue a full court press to get impaired drivers off the road.”
The North Central Regional DUI Enforcement Program coordinates DUI efforts in Berks and several other counties across Pennsylvania. The program is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Officials are urging the public to take part in keeping roads safe. Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is asked to call 911. Reports of underage drinking can be made by calling 1-888-UNDER-21.