Beverly Hills Police Increase DUI Enforcement For Holiday Season

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — This holiday season, from December 13 to New Year's Day, the Beverly Hills Police Department will have more officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

"The Beverly Hills Police Department encourages everyone attending holiday parties and gatherings where alcohol may be involved to use a designated sober driver," BHPD said.

BHPD said impaired driving is not just from alcohol — prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and marijuana can also impair drivers, especially in combination with alcohol and other drugs.

"Unfortunately, this time of year is when we see more people driving impaired," Police Chief Sandra Spagnoli said. "There are no excuses for driving after drinking or using drugs that impair. There are many ways to get home safely without driving."

Holiday party hosts should offer non-alcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers and monitor how people are getting home, the press release said. If someone has been drinking and tries to leave, offer to have them stay the night or take ride-share services home, police said.