MENIFEE, Calif. — The Menifee Police Department will conduct a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint on Saturday, Feb. 21, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce impaired driving in the city.
The operation is scheduled from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location within Menifee city limits.
According to the department, checkpoint locations are selected based on data regarding past DUI-related crashes and arrests. While officers will be checking for signs of alcohol and drug impairment, authorities emphasized that the primary goal is deterrence rather than making arrests.
“DUIs are dangerous and can affect so many people with one bad decision made and that bad decision is driving impaired,” Police Chief Chris Karrer said. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly, and 100% preventable.”
The department noted that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana can also interfere with driving abilities. While medicinal and recreational marijuana use is legal in California, driving under the influence of the substance remains illegal.
Drivers charged with a DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, in addition to a suspended license.
Funding for the checkpoint is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
