The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has announced plans to conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint in La Quinta on January 9, 2026. The operation will take place from 8:00 PM until 2:00 AM at an undisclosed location.
Checkpoint locations are selected based on data that indicate areas with higher rates of impaired driving-related crashes. The main goal of these checkpoints is to improve public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Deputy Lawrence Ponce. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
Authorities remind the public that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. Although marijuana is legal for medicinal and recreational use in California, it remains illegal to drive under its influence.
First-time DUI offenders face average costs of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license.
The program receives funding through a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety, which is supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For further information about this incident, media representatives are directed to contact the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in employment opportunities with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office can visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
