Modesto Police DUI Checkpoint Planned for April 24
MODESTO, Calif. — Drivers in Modesto should expect a DUI checkpoint Friday night as the Modesto Police Department continues its effort to reduce impaired driving crashes.
The checkpoint is scheduled for Friday, April 24, 2026, from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. Saturday, April 25, at an undisclosed location in Modesto, according to reports citing the Modesto Police Department.
Why Police Are Holding the Checkpoint
Police said DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing areas with a history of crashes involving impaired drivers. The goal is to increase public safety by identifying and removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.
Traffic Safety Unit DUI Officer Elias McKnight said impaired drivers create a major risk for others on the road, and that prevention efforts can help improve traffic safety.
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DUI Does Not Only Mean Alcohol
Modesto police reminded drivers that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana can also affect someone’s ability to drive safely. While marijuana is legal for medicinal and recreational use in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.
First-Time DUI Can Cost Thousands
Police said drivers convicted of a first-time DUI can face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license. The checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The California Office of Traffic Safety says its mission is to deliver traffic safety programs that help prevent people from being killed or seriously injured on California roads.
What Drivers Should Know
Drivers should plan ahead if they plan to drink, use marijuana, or take medication that may affect driving. Use a sober driver, rideshare, taxi, or stay where you are.
The checkpoint is expected to run through the early morning hours of Saturday, April 25.
Quick Facts
Location: Modesto, California
Date: Friday, April 24, 2026
Time: 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Checkpoint Location: Undisclosed
Agency: Modesto Police Department
Purpose: DUI enforcement and impaired driving prevention
Funding: California Office of Traffic Safety grant through NHTSA
What Is Confirmed
Modesto police are planning a DUI checkpoint on April 24, 2026.
The checkpoint is scheduled from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.
The exact location has not been publicly released.
Police say the location was selected based on impaired-driving crash data.
The checkpoint is funded through a California Office of Traffic Safety grant.
What Is Not Yet Confirmed
Police have not publicly released the exact checkpoint location.
No arrest or citation numbers are available yet because the checkpoint has not happened as of this writing.
No specific crash or incident was listed as the sole reason for this checkpoint.
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