The DeKalb Police Department works every night trying to prevent intoxicated drivers from hurting others during their adventure home.

DeKalb Police Officer Brian Bollow recorded 60 DUI arrests in 2005 and will receive a certificate of appreciation from the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists.

AAIM recently completed their annual DUI arrest survey evaluating Illinois police departments.

For a second consecutive year, the city of DeKalb snagged 235 motorists while driving under the influence.

“Officers should be commended because DUIs are time-consuming and frustrating; basically the worst type of arrest because people are not generally at their best as they are when they come to court,” said Charlene Chapman, executive director of AAIM.

DeKalb exceeds the state average of 3.3 DUI arrests per officer, tallying 3.92.

More DUI arrests does not necessarily mean more drunk drivers in that city, it just means that city made it a priority through the police chief or city administrators, Chapman said.

Naperville finished first for the fourth straight year, recording 717 DUI arrests in 2005.

“Cities with more DUI arrests often have more time for DUI enforcement because there is less violent crime to deal with,” said DeKalb Police Lt. Jim Kayes. “Just look at Naperville versus Aurora.”

Aurora made 467 DUI arrests from 2004-2005, while Naperville made 1,643 DUI arrests during the same period.

“Enforcement provides prevention and deterrents,” Chapman said.

Penalties for DUIs have become more strict in recent years in an attempt to deter motorists from drinking and driving.

“We have already reached the responsible people through education, but it seems other people only respond after court when they are hit in the pocketbook,” Chapman said.

Enforcement has gotten stronger in the last 30 years with some strict, well-written laws, as technological advancements have given officers more tools to determine intoxication levels, Kayes said.

“We want to give NIU students a fun existence but find a way to protect their lives,” said DeKalb Mayor Frank Van Buer. “One DUI is too many.”