DUI Checkpoint Planned In Santee This Weekend

SANTEE, CA – In an effort to curb drunk driving around the city, the Santee Sheriff’s Station is conducting a DUI and driver's license checkpoint this weekend. The station’s traffic division will hold the checkpoint from 8 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday at an undisclosed location within city limits, Sgt. Joe Passalacqua said.

"In an effort to reduce the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol-involved crashes, DUI checkpoints are conducted to identify offenders and get them off the street, as well as educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving," Passalacqua said.

During the Saturday night checkpoint, officers will be on the lookout for drivers with signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment. Deputies will also check for valid licensing.

"Our objective is to send a clear message to those who are considering driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and/or drugs," Passalacqua said. "The public is encouraged to help keep roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver."

The checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone