By Gina Yarbrough
Encinitas, CA–San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a Driving Under the Influence and Driver’s License checkpoint in Encinitas on Friday, authorities said.
The DUI operation, conducted in the 1800 block of South Coast Highway 101 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., aimed to curb impaired driving and ensure road safety.
The checkpoint screened 680 vehicles, with 419 entering the checkpoint. Of these, 27 were sent to a secondary screening for further evaluation. Nine drivers underwent DUI evaluations, resulting in two DUI alcohol arrests. There were no drug arrests reported.
In addition to the DUI arrests, deputies issued citations to three drivers for operating a vehicle while unlicensed and one driver for driving with a suspended license. Two vehicles were towed during the operation.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department emphasized the importance of not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They remind the public that impairment isn’t limited to alcohol; some prescription and over-the-counter medications can also affect driving abilities. Despite the legality of medicinal and recreational marijuana, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.
The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The initiative underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and reduce impaired driving incidents.