DUI Checkpoint Planned In Concord

CONCORD, CA — The Concord Police Department announced it will hold a DUI checkpoint Friday night on Willow Pass Road and Mt. Diablo Street.

During the checkpoint, which is from 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 26, until 3 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

"Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests," Concord police Officer Shaun Parsley said in a news release. "The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired."

Parsley reminded community members that impaired driving is not just from alcohol; some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. People should follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or "operating heavy machinery," which includes driving a car, Parsley said. And while medicinal and recreational marijuana is legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal, according to police.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

"The safety of our community is and always will be our mission," Concord police Lt. Gregory Rodriguez said. "We are looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is dangerous and puts others on the road at risk."

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.