MENIFEE – Menifee Police Department will hold a DUI/driver’s license checkpoint Saturday, Aug. 27, from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. at an undisclosed location within the Menifee city limits.
Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The Menifee Police Department said it is committed to keeping the community safe and free of DUI drivers by conducting checkpoints and sending out individual police units throughout the year to look for these drivers.
“DUI’s are extremely dangerous and can affect so many people with one bad decision made and that bad decision is driving impaired,” Chief Ed Varso said. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly and 100% preventable.”
Those who plan to drink should arrange for a ride or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise they may get arrested and face legal challenges, according to the police department.
The Menifee Police Department reminded the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Those who plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely should plan on staying at home.
Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Submitted by Menifee Police Department.
