Menifee PD plans DUI checkpoint on July 30

Press release from the Menifee Police Department:

MENIFEE -- Menifee Police Department will hold a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint July 30 from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. at an undisclosed location within the Menifee city limits.

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

The Menifee Police Department is committed to keeping our community safe and free of DUI drivers not only do we conduct checkpoints, but we also send out individual police units throughout the year to look for these dangerous drivers.

“DUI’s are extremely dangerous and can affect so many people with one bad decision made and that bad decision is driving impaired,” said Chief Ed Varso. “Driving while under the influence of alcohol, and/or drugs, is dangerous, potentially deadly and 100 percent preventable.”

Please arrange for a ride if you plan on drinking or designate a sober driver when going out, otherwise you may get arrested and face legal challenges.

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. 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.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.

Drivers charged with DUI face 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.