Napa Police Announce Checkpoint, Extra DUI Patrols This Holiday Season

NAPA, CA— The Napa Police Department reminded the public of the dangers of driving impaired and urged people to celebrate the holiday season responsibly by not driving under the influence.

To that end, Napa police will have additional officers on patrol from Dec. 11 through New Year's Day, looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The high-visibility enforcement effort is part of a national campaign, "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," to stop suspected impaired drivers who put others at risk.

In addition to extra patrols, the Napa Police Department, with support from the Napa County Probation Department and allied agencies, will conduct a DUI checkpoint from 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, until 2 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, at an undisclosed location in the city of Napa.

The holiday season can be dangerous for people on the roads. In December 2022 alone, 1,062 people were killed in the United States in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Napa Police Department encourages everyone to stay in for the night, but for those who will consume alcohol, have a "go safely" game plan by scheduling a ride or designating a sober driver.

"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," said Sgt. Aaron Medina. "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."

Napa police reminded everyone that impaired driving is not just from alcohol; prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. Those who plan on drinking and driving or taking medications with a driving warning label should let someone who is sober drive.

Lastly, police urged the public to call 911 if they see someone who appears to be driving while impaired.

Funding for this holiday DUI crackdown is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.