DUI, Driver's License Checkpoint Planned For Westside

VENICE, CA — A DUI, driver's license checkpoint is scheduled for Friday afternoon and evening in LAPD's Pacific Division, the department announced.

The exact checkpoint location was not released, but it will be somewhere in the Del Rey, Venice, Mar Vista, Palms, or Westchester region from 3 to 11 p.m. Friday.

Police will conduct traffic stops at several locations across Los Angeles for the weekend.

"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," Los Angeles Police Department said in a statement.

"During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs," officials said.

As the state continues to work to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Los Angeles Police Department
(LAPD) is committed to keeping the public safe.

“The safety of our community is and always will be our mission,” said Los Angeles Police Commander Woodyard of the Traffic Group. “We are still out there looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is still dangerous.”

Impaired driving includes more than just alcohol, officials said.

"Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving," police said. "Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or” operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal."