Law enforcement officials in El Cajon will set up a sobriety screening operation later this week as part of ongoing efforts to identify and remove impaired drivers from local roads.
The checkpoint is scheduled for the evening of August 21, running from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m. the following morning. Officers will be stationed in the 1000 block of North Second Street to conduct the operation.
According to Sgt. Brian Ehlers, the department selects checkpoint sites using collision data that identifies areas where impaired driving incidents have occurred. He emphasized that removing suspected impaired drivers represents a critical public safety measure that helps protect other motorists.
Authorities noted that impairment extends beyond alcohol consumption. Drivers can face charges for operating vehicles while affected by prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or marijuana, despite the substance being legal for recreational use in California.
Those convicted of driving under the influence for the first time typically face financial consequences averaging $13,500 in combined fines and penalties, in addition to losing their driving privileges. The checkpoint program receives financial support through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, which is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.