Santa Maria Police Arrest 11 Drivers During DUI Checkpoint on Saturday

The Santa Maria Police Department conducted a DUI Checkpoint on September 13, 2025, resulting in 11 drivers arrested on suspicion of DUI. The checkpoint was held at 1400 South Broadway from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

During the operation:
• 11 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
• 11 drivers were cited for driving without a license.
• 3 drivers were cited for driving on a suspended license.
• 632 vehicles passed through the checkpoint.
• 152 drivers were screened.

The Santa Maria Police Department remains dedicated to removing impaired drivers from the road. Driving under the influence is not only a serious safety risk but also carries significant legal and financial consequences.

Drivers facing a first-time DUI conviction can expect an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver’s license.

Community Partnership
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) was also present at the checkpoint, distributing educational materials to drivers. Their participation supports ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and reinforces the importance of community partnerships in promoting roadway safety.

Additional DUI and driver’s license checkpoints will be conducted in the coming months as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety. Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.