This Is AuburnElectronic Theses and Dissertations

Legal Status of Alcohol, Population Density, and the Incidence of DUI Arrests in Alabama

Date

2008-08-15

Author

Malek-Ahmadi, John

Type of Degree

Thesis

Department

Sociology

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the effect legal status of alcohol and population density has on the incidence of DUI arrests in the state of Alabama. It was expected that dry counties with low population densities will possess the highest rates of DUI arrests. The results of the study were mixed. Wet counties did possess higher rates of DUI arrests. Areas with higher population densities also showed higher DUI arrest rates. Rates of DUI arrest for the 2006 year were acquired from the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center for 65 of the 67 counties in the state. Demographic variables that assisted in the formulation of the study were obtained from the U.S. Census 2000 report and the Alabama Beverage Control Commission.