Menifee DUI Checkpoint Scheduled for April 17

The Menifee Police Department's traffic unit will conduct a DUI/driver's license checkpoint April 17 between the hours of 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location in Menifee, according to a news release.

Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. The officers will also be checking drivers for proper licensing. Motorists will only be delayed momentarily. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving.

Recent statistics reveal that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems, police said. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent). Of the drugs, marijuana was the most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol.

DUI Checkpoints are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests affording the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence. Locations are chosen with safety considerations for the officers and the public.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Menifee Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.