DUI Checkpoint To Be Held In Menifee

MENIFEE, CA — Police will set up a checkpoint to monitor for impaired drivers in Menifee on Dec. 20, officials announced Thursday.

The Menifee Police Department said the checkpoint will be held from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location in Menifee.

DUI checkpoint locations are placed in areas where impaired driving-related incidents tend to happen the most. Police hope to improve public safety through this effort by removing those who may be drunk or high behind the wheel from the road.

"DUIs are 100% preventable and when somebody makes the bad decision to drive impaired; it can potentially have lifelong effects,” said Chief Chris Karrer. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly. It not only affects the driver but so many families and friends too.” Please arrange for a ride if you plan on drinking or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise, you may get arrested and face legal challenges."

More Menifee police will patrol the city from now until New Year's Day as part of the department's annual high-visibility enforcement effort.

“During the holiday season, we see families and loved ones coming together to celebrate, and our goal is to make sure everyone gets home safely,” Karrer said. “Impaired driving isn’t just dangerous; it’s illegal. Let’s make this a joyful and safe holiday season for everyone on the road. We urge people to act responsibly and plan a sober ride home.”

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.