Police Announce Checkpoint Friday Night

The Pasadena Police Department will conduct a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint Friday evening at an undisclosed location within city limits, police announced this week.

The checkpoint targets drivers impaired by any substance, not just alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana — whether used medicinally or recreationally — can all trigger DUI charges under California law, police said.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” 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.”

Checkpoint locations are selected using data showing where alcohol- or drug-related collisions have occurred, according to the department. Officers will look for signs of impairment and verify that drivers hold valid licenses.

A first-time DUI conviction in California costs an average of $13,500 in fines, fees, and related expenses, and results in a suspended license, police said. The estimate includes attorney fees, DUI classes, insurance increases, and lost work time.

The department’s campaign messaging — “Sober or Hand ‘Em Over” and “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze” — underscores that impairment extends to substances beyond alcohol. Drivers taking medications with warnings about operating machinery or drowsiness should not drive, officials said.

The checkpoint program is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Drivers who want to avoid the checkpoint may turn onto another street before reaching it, provided they do not commit traffic violations while doing so. Under California law, checkpoints must be publicly announced in advance and visibly marked with signs, lights, and uniformed officers.

“Impaired driving is not just from alcohol,” Russo said. “Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving.”