First published in the Nov. 26 print issue of the South Pasadena Review.
Additional officers from the South Pasadena Police Department was on patrol on Nov. 26, from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The South Pasadena Police Department remains committed to keeping the public safe when they are traveling.
“We want everyone to be as safe as possible, especially when they are on the road,” Lieutenant Shannon Robledo said.
The SPPD reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving — it’s recommended to follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving on medications. Additionally, while medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
The police warn people to stay home if planning to drink or take medications that may impact one’s ability to drive safely.
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.
