Additional police officers patrolled city streets in an effort to keep intoxicated drivers off the road.
As of Sunday night, 147 stops had been made and eleven sobriety tests had been carried out. Three people were arrested for driving under the influence.
In recent years, police may have managed DUI checkpoints, but officials say the pandemic has changed their operations.
“We come into contact with many of these drivers during checkpoints and we just want to try to limit the exposure to officers and the public,” said Fresno police officer. Ritchie O’Dell.
If convicted, a first offense DUI can result in a multitude of fines, including a three to five year probation and a fine of at least $ 390.
With restrictions on the indoor dining room due to the pandemic, many pubs and breweries also had to change their plan for the game day.
At Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company, staff saw fewer people but more beer sales.
The driver, William Compton, said the Super Bowl usually did not bring in many crowds, but discounts on delivery yielded more profits.
“With Super Bowl Sunday, it looks more like a family affair. It’s more like a holiday for people and it’s something people like to celebrate at home,” Compton said.
Sgt. O’Dell said with more people celebrating at home, the department’s patrol efforts were nationwide.
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