Menifee PD schedules additional traffic patrol for DUI

The Menifee Police Department announced additional traffic patrol for this week designed to look for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

In news releases, the department announced that the extra patrols would take place Dec. 3-4 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Menifee PD is committed to keeping the public safe, including after the 10 p.m. curfew when residents need to run essential errands.

“Safety is paramount, but especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Chief Pat Walsh said. “We are all in this together and want everyone to be as safe as possible when they are out. One way to do that is by not driving impaired.”

Menifee Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving, according to the news release.

“Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or operating heavy machinery, which includes driving a car,” the news release states. “While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home. Driving sober is your safest bet.”

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI will pay an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In addition, Menifee PD reported that seven drivers were cited for violating the state’s hands-free cell phone law during a distracted driving enforcement operation on Nov. 24.

“Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the dangers of distracted driving, some drivers continue to use their phones when they are behind the wheel,” Walsh said. “Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors, so that drivers are only focused on the task of driving.”