DUI Patrols Planned For Menifee This Month

MENIFEE, CA — Police will conduct a checkpoint to catch drivers intoxicated or under the influence of drugs in Menifee on Thursday, June 19, officials announced this week.

The Menifee Police Department said the patrol period will take place from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. at an undisclosed location, which is determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes.

"Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous and potentially deadly," the department wrote in a statement. "It not only affects the driver but 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 be arrested and face legal challenges."

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.