Suspected DUI Driver Arrested At Escondido Checkpoint

ESCONDIDO, CA — One driver was arrested at a DUI checkpoint in Escondido on suspicion of driving under the influence, authorities said Saturday.

The checkpoint was conducted Friday evening at El Norte Parkway and Washington Avenue, according to the Escondido Police Department.

More than 1,600 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, with 915 vehicles screened and another 54 vehicles sent to secondary screening when drivers could not produce a driver's license or officers suspected the driver of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Escondido police said.

A total of 31 citations were issued, including seven for a suspended license, 22 for unlicensed driver and one for a child restraint violation, the EPD said.

In 2018, Escondido police investigated 90 DUI crashes that killed four people and injured 120 others.

Drivers convicted of DUI can expect a financial hit of approximately $13,500, which includes fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses as well as possible jail time, police said.

The Escondido Police Department also reminded drivers that prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, can impair and result in a DUI. Marijuana can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs.

– City News Service