Pasadena Police Launch Holiday DUI Crackdown as Part of National Campaign

Pasadena police launched stepped-up patrols Friday, Dec. 12 to catch impaired drivers as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, officials announced. The enforcement effort will continue through New Year’s Day.

The Pasadena Police Department said additional officers will be on the streets looking for motorists suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The campaign is part of a nationwide push to reduce impaired driving during the holiday season.

“We want to make sure everyone gets home safely so that they can celebrate the holiday season with their families and loved ones,” Lt. Anthony Russo said in a statement. “Not only is driving impaired illegal, but it is also dangerous and never acceptable. We are asking everyone to do their part to keep themselves and everyone on the roads safe.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,038 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes in the United States in December 2023.

Police officials noted that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis and other substances can also affect a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

The department urged residents to plan ahead by designating a sober driver, using public transit or calling a taxi or rideshare service if they intend to drink. Officials also encouraged the public to call 9-1-1 if they see someone who appears to be driving while impaired.

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