Pasadena Police to Conduct Friday DUI Checkpoint as Part of Traffic Safety Initiative

The Pasadena Police Department will be conducting a DUI (driving under the influence) checkpoint at an undisclosed location within city limits on Friday, Nov. 15. 

A Police Department advisory said officers will position the checkpoint strategically, using data-driven analysis of areas where impaired driving incidents and related crashes have previously occurred. 

The primary purpose of these checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road, the advisory said. 

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Pasadena Police Lieutenant Anthony Russo said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety and can save lives.” 

The advisory said impairment extends beyond alcohol consumption, noting that both prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs can compromise driving ability and safety on roadways. 

The Police Department specifically highlighted that while marijuana use may be legal for both medicinal and recreational purposes in California, operating vehicles under its influence remains prohibited. 

Motorists caught driving under the influence face severe consequences, including an average of $13,500 in combined fines and penalties, along with license suspension for first-time offenders. 

The checkpoint operation receives funding from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety working in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.