Downey Police to conduct DUI checkpoint Thursday night

DOWNEY — The Downey Police Department will hold a DUI checkpoint on Thursday, Aug. 21, from 8 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. at an undisclosed location within city limits.

The checkpoint is part of the department’s ongoing effort to reduce impaired driving and enhance road safety. Police officials said the location was chosen based on data showing higher rates of crashes involving impaired drivers.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Police Chief Scott Loughner said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads make a major impact on traffic safety.”

Authorities emphasized that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Certain prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana — even when used legally — can affect driving ability.

According to the department, first-time DUI offenders face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver’s license.

Funding for the checkpoint is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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