CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Additional officers from the Citrus Heights Police Department will be out on patrol 12/18/2020 through 01/02/2021 from 7pm to 3am looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

With changing stay home orders and public health directives as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Citrus Heights Police Department remains committed to keeping the public safe when they are traveling.

“This pandemic is impacting all of us in difficult ways,” Citrus Heights Police Sergeant Shaun Gualco said. “We want everyone to be as safe as possible, especially when they are on the road.”

Citrus Heights Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with 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.