Police to Conduct DUI, License Checkpoint on Friday

The Pasadena Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI)/driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, Dec. 19, at an undisclosed location within city limits, officials announced Tuesday.

The checkpoint is part of an effort to reduce impaired driving and improve traffic safety. Locations are selected based on crash data involving impaired drivers, the Pasadena Police Department 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.”

Police reminded the public that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can affect driving ability, and while medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains against the law.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license, the Pasadena Police Department said.

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

The Pasadena Police Department also spotlighted its public safety campaign slogans: “Sober or Hand ’Em Over” and “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Borze.”