Full Notification

Escondido Police Officers arrested 6 drivers on suspicion of DUI while conducting a DUI enforcement patrol on Sunday, September 27, 2020.

While the state’s stay-at-home order is limiting how often people are out, the Escondido Police Department is committed to keeping the public safe when they do need to run essential errands.

“Driving under the influence is dangerous, illegal and puts a further strain on resources in the middle of a pandemic,” Chief Ed Varso said. “We are still out there and will not hesitate to stop drivers who drive impaired.”

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

The Escondido Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or ”operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

The Escondido Police Department holding a series of DUI enforcement patrols throughout the year to keep our roadways safe.

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