Wildomar DUI Checkpoint Yields Multiple Citations, Arrests

WILDOMAR, CA — A recent Driving Under the Influence and Driver License checkpoint in Wildomar resulted in numerous citations and a few arrests, according to officers.

At the checkpoint, held on Saturday, June 7, deputies from the Lake Elsinore Sheriff's Station conducted a checkpoint from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Palomar Street and Harwood Lane in Wildomar.

The checkpoint yielded the following:

• 725 cars screened.
• 6 citations for unlicensed drivers.
• 1 citation for suspended license.
• 5 driving under the influence arrests.
• 11 vehicles were towed.
• 1 arrest for drug possession.
• A total of 27 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 the checkpoint, 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," Sgt. Brad Foster said in a recent news release.

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, Foster reminded.

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.”