There will be a few DUI checkpoints this weekend in Panorama City and Chatsworth.
- Friday, September 30th, a DUI checkpoint will be held from 8 pm to 1 am at Roscoe blvd. and Noble Ave. in Panorama City
- In Chatsworth, a DUI checkpoint will be held Saturday October 1st at 8 pm at Topanga Canyon blvd. and San Jose Street.
- On Sunday, a DUI saturation patrol will be in effect from 12 pm to 8 pm in the Southeast
While both DUI checkpoints and saturation patrols have the same purpose – that of catching anyone driving under the influence – the saturation patrols are a little different. Typically, saturation patrols are when a certain area of the city sees an increased police presence with officers looking specifically for anyone exhibiting signs of driving under the influence.
Announcing the date and time of a DUI checkpoint ahead of time might seem counter-intuitive, but they’ve remained effective nonetheless. When police announce that checkpoints will be conducted, they’re alerting the public to an increased period of awareness for would-be drunk drivers.
At the checkpoints, and during stops, police will also be checking to ensure that drivers are in possession of valid California driver’s licenses. Individuals caught driving on a suspended license will likely be charged with violating California Vehicle Code 14601 VC. Violations are misdemeanors, and the possible penalties include up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Those who are caught driving under the influence will face much, much stiffer penalties. The possible penalties include up to $14,000 in fines, mandatory attendance at traffic school, driver’s license suspension/revocation and possible jail time, depending on whether or not it was a first-offense.
