April 20 DUI checkpoint and law enforcement efforts

Student News

Members of the UC Santa Cruz community and campus neighbors, please be advised there is the potential for traffic disruptions and hazards during the afternoon of Thursday, April 20 because of the unsanctioned gathering known as “4–20”. The greatest impact is expected from 3–6 p.m.As the chief of police, my primary responsibility is the health and safety of our community. Similar to 2016, we will have an increased law enforcement presence with additional UC police officers, as well as allied law enforcement agencies throughout the campus conducting enforcement activities. These officers will conduct enhanced patrols throughout the day, looking for individuals in violation of the law, including the possession of and/or using marijuana and alcohol or other drugs; drivers under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol; and will enforce unpermitted vending of any merchandise, food, services, or medical marijuana on the campus. Campus parking regulations will also be strictly enforced.
In addition to these enforcement efforts, the Santa Cruz Area CHP will be conducting a DUI checkpoint near the west side of campus, aggressively seeking those who choose to drive under the influence. It is our goal to use this enforcement tool to assist with the reduction of injury and fatal collisions caused by impaired drivers. Last year there were three arrests for driving under the influence as a result of the checkpoint. Recently, we have made several DUI arrests, including an injury accident near Family Student Housing in the early morning hours of Friday, April 14.
Please plan accordingly and anticipate possible disruptions to traffic due to the large groups of people that may be present, especially on the west side of campus. Campus and Metro bus service may be delayed. Traffic diversion measures may be instituted if needed to alleviate impacted areas. If driving a vehicle, be alert for increased pedestrian traffic on all roadways, as well as the ...

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