DUI Checkpoint Planned In Concord This Weekend, Police Say

CONCORD, CA— The Concord Police Department announced it will hold a DUI checkpoint this weekend.

The checkpoint is planned for 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, until 3 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 17, on Willow Pass Road and Mt. Diablo Street, Concord police announced Wednesday.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests, Concord police Cpl. Shaun Parsley said in a news release. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired, Parsley said.

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“The safety of our community is and always will be our mission,” Lt. Gregory Rodriguez said. “We are looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is dangerous and puts others on the road at risk.”

The Concord Police Department reminded the public that some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may also interfere with driving. Police advise those who plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact their ability to drive safely to stay home.

Further, while medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, police said, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

According to police, drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

The checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.