DeKalb County Police Launch Safety Checkpoints in High-Traffic, High Crime Areas to Deter Crime and Reduce Traffic Fatalities as Part of “Operation Safe Streets”

Homicides Down Nearly 49 Percent Year-Over-Year as County Ramps Up Enforcement
 

As part of an aggressive countywide effort to crack down on crime and reckless driving, the DeKalb County Police Department’s Special Operations Division conducted a high-visibility Spring Operation Safety Checkpoint on Friday, April 11, 2025. The initiative is a cornerstone of CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s public safety strategy, which combines proactive policing, multi-agency collaboration, and targeted enforcement to reduce crime and save lives.
 

Held at 2936 Memorial Drive near Candler Road, the two-hour checkpoint focused on ensuring motorists were driving lawfully and safely. Officers screened for valid licenses, registration, insurance, impaired driving, and equipment violations, while distributing educational materials on traffic safety. The checkpoint was supported by the DUI STAR Team, Motors Unit, SWAT, and STEP Units.
 

“As CEO, public safety is my top priority,” said CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “Whether it’s reducing violent crime or preventing street racing, my administration is committed to supporting proactive policing efforts that keep DeKalb residents safe. The progress we are seeing—particularly the nearly 49% reduction in homicides compared to this time last year—is a testament to the dedication and strategic coordination of our law enforcement agencies.”
 

This past weekend’s safety checkpoint resulted in 6 arrests, 60 traffic citations, the recovery of 1.5 pounds of marijuana, and the seizure of multiple vehicles. It followed a successful joint Georgia State Patrol-DeKalb Police operation earlier this month that infiltrated an organized street racing ring, resulting in 11 arrests, 10 cars impounded, firearms recovered, and the discovery of four individuals who had outstanding felony warrants.
 

“I will do everything within my authority to get tough on crime and lock up perpetrators across DeKalb,” said Cochran-Johnson. “We have too many people living in fear of street racers, car invasions, and lawless individuals. I plan to double down on undercover operations and create a direct pipeline between perpetrators and the DeKalb County Jail.”
 

According to the DeKalb County Police Department, 26 motor vehicle fatalities have already occurred this year. The top contributing factors continue to be impaired driving and speeding. These operations aim not only to identify dangerous drivers but to deter lawless behavior and educate the public about responsible driving.
 

“This type of operation helps us reduce crashes, identify impaired drivers, and ensure that motorists are operating their vehicles safely and legally,” said Interim Chief Gregory Padrick. “Our goal is not just enforcement—but prevention. We want to stop tragedies before they happen and build stronger relationships with the communities we serve.”
 

A total of 27 officers were deployed for the safety checkpoint, including teams assigned to screening stations, traffic stops, secondary investigation areas, and DUI processing.
 

Additional multi-agency enforcement efforts, including undercover operations and community-centered safety campaigns, will continue throughout the spring and summer.