The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint in Coachella on January 10, 2026. The checkpoint will operate from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM at a location that has not been disclosed.
Officials state that DUI checkpoint locations are selected based on data related to impaired driving crashes. The main goal of these checkpoints is to enhance public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the roads.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Deputy Jason Beck. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
The Sheriff’s Office also reminds residents that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from some prescription and over-the-counter medications. Although medicinal and recreational marijuana use is legal, driving under its influence remains illegal.
A first-time DUI offense can lead to an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver’s license.
Funding for this program comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For further information about this incident, media inquiries should be directed to the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in employment opportunities with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office are encouraged to visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
