For Immediate Release Contact: Sergeant Nathan Lloyd, Nlloyd@ridgecrest-ca.gov, 760-499-5143 Ridgecrest Police Department...

For Immediate Release Contact: Sergeant Nathan Lloyd, Nlloyd@ridgecrest-ca.gov, 760-499-5143

Ridgecrest Police Department Conducting DUI Checkpoint

Ridgecrest, Calif. – On 02/20/2026, the Ridgecrest Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at an undisclosed location DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Chief Mario Ysit said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”

The Ridgecrest Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

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