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Ventura, Calif. — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.
This checkpoint will be dedicated to the memory of Coldren “Cole” Kiblinger. On December 25, 2022, Cole accepted a ride from a family friend he did not know was intoxicated. The driver went off an embankment on the Santa Susana Pass in Simi Valley. Cole was killed immediately. At the time of his passing, he was 23-years-old and looking to propose to his girlfriend the following year.
“The safety of our community is and will always be our mission,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Every prevention measure we take to reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads honors Cole’s memory and significantly improves traffic safety for everyone.”
The Ventura Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just caused by alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is not. Marijuana can be impairing, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs, which can also result in a DUI.
If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying safe at home. If you see a drunk driver, always call 9-1-1.
Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
To learn more about the Office of Traffic Safety grant and VPD’s educational efforts, contact Emily Ayala, Communications Specialist for the Ventura Police Department, at eayala@cityofventura.ca.gov.
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