Officials have warned the public that the Los Angeles County DUI Patrol will be in the maximum enforcement mode for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations this weekend and Monday.
California Highway Patrol and other agencies will host DUI checkpoints across Southern California, up and down the state.
KTLA’s Chris Wolfe spoke with CHP officials at San Gabriel Valley on Saturday, and unfortunately, law enforcement officials say it’s a hot spot for DUI-related car accidents.
Just a few nights ago, a drunk driver was arrested after one person was injured in Baldwin Park in a collision between two cars.
It happened Thursday night, when at least one vehicle was slammed into a tree near the house.
Police say adults suspected of driving under the influence had minor passengers in the vehicle, leading to an additional fee for child hazards.
The remains of the DUI crash can be seen in Baldwin Park. March 2025 (Baldwin Park News) The remains of the DUI crash can be seen in Baldwin Park. March 2025 (Baldwin Park News) The remains of the DUI crash can be seen in Baldwin Park. March 2025 (Baldwin Park News) The remains of the DUI crash can be seen in Baldwin Park. March 2025 (Baldwin Park News)
Baldwin Park Police Department said, “Don’t push your luck! St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, friends and celebrations! But if your plans contain alcohol, don’t resort to luck. Plan ahead and bring your sober ride home.”
Driving drunk often leads to violent and fatal consequences, and even first-time offenders face prison time, with probably paying fees of around $15,000-20,000,000, penalties, lawyer fees, court-mandated treatment, counseling programs and more.
Needless to say, potential losses in driver’s licenses for up to a year, and perhaps losses in their work.
“It could be anyone’s neighbors, family, teachers,” said CHP executive Joseph Davila. “It’s basically a crime of choice.”
CHP said it recommends the following steps to avoid driving impairedness:
Plan ahead of time. Specify a calm driver or plan an alternative transport plan before you go out drinking. If you are holding a party, please provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks. Stop serving alcohol a few hours before the party ends. If you see a friend who is drunk and unable to drive, grab the key and call it a taxi or ride, or go home. If you suspect a driver is disabled, please call 911. A phone can save someone’s life.
Source link
