The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint in La Quinta on January 9, 2026. The operation is scheduled to run from 8:00 PM until 2:00 AM at an undisclosed location.
According to the department, locations for DUI checkpoints 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 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.”
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that impairment can result not only from alcohol but also from certain prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, while marijuana use may be legal for medicinal and recreational purposes, driving under its influence remains illegal.
First-time offenders charged with DUI can expect average fines and penalties totaling $13,500 and may face a suspended license.
Funding for this initiative comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For further information regarding this incident, media representatives are directed to contact the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in careers with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office are encouraged to visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
