Lake Elsinore Deputies Arrest 4 DUI Drivers During Checkpoint

CANYON LAKE, CAThe results from Friday's Lake Elsinore Station DUI/Driver's License Checkpoint in Canyon Lake are in. Authorities say over 1,000 cars were screened, four arrests were made, and multiple citations were issued.

The checkpoint, set up on Railroad Canyon Road and Sorrel Lane between the hours of 8 p.m. and 3 a.m., yielded the following:

• 1,195 cars screened.
• 13 citations for Unlicensed drivers
• 1 citation for Suspended license
• 4 driving under the influence arrests
• 7 vehicles were towed.
• 23 citations were issued

Funding for this checkpoint is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to “Report Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1.”

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 checkpoints, deputies 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. Driving under the influence is dangerous and puts a further strain on critical resources.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reminds 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 vehicle. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, 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 checkpoint is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to “Report Drunk Driver – Call 9–1–1.”