DUI Patrols Planned For Perris

JURUPA VALLEY, CA — Police will ramp up patrols to search for impaired drivers in Perris between Friday and early Saturday, officials announced.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department said the patrol period will take place from 6 p.m. to midnight.

“Impaired driving is preventable,” Sergeant Jeremy Bracey said. “It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taken drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”

Police hope to improve public safety through this effort by removing those who may be drunk or high behind the wheel from the road.

Police warn that it isn't just alcohol that can impair driving. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. And while recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of it is not.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI can face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties and have their license suspended.

Funding for this checkpoint comes from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.