Virginia Circuit Court May 7, 2003, Case No. 27621 (Commonwealth v. Dovel)

BY JUDGE JOHN J. MCGRATH, JR.

This case involves the continuing and vexing question of the legality of automobile “check-points,” “road blocks,” and “blockades.” Although there may be occasions where there are subtle distinctions between check-points, road blocks, and blockades, in this case they will all be referred to as a “checkpoint.