Menifee checkpoint snags 40 unlicensed drivers

The Menifee Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a DUI/Driver's License checkpoint on Friday, July 11, 2014, on Hwy. 74 and Trade Winds between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.

During this DUI/Driver's License checkpoint, deputies contacted drivers in the eastbound lanes of Hwy. 74. A total of 922 vehicles passed through the checkpoint. Of those vehicles, 69 vehicles were directed into the secondary inspection/evaluation area, which resulted in the following:

7 drivers were given field sobriety tests

2 DUI-Alcohol suspects were arrested

0 DUI-Drug impaired suspects was arrested

40 Drivers were cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked

23 vehicles were towed

The Menifee Police Department is committed to lowering DUI-related deaths and injuries on our streets and highways. The Menifee Police Department would like to thank our city roads crew and Crime Watch volunteers for their assistance in our mission.

Checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.

DUI/Driver's License checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries. A major component of these checkpoints are the deterrent effects it has on those who might drive drunk or drug-impaired, bringing about more awareness and encouraging everyone to use sober designated drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent. Ninety percent of California drivers approve of checkpoints.

This checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Report Drunk Drivers – Call 9-1-1!