SAN DIEGO, CA — Deputies will increase patrols Tuesday in search of people driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs on St. Patrick’s Day in San Diego County.
Increased patrols will begin 6 p.m. Tuesday and continue through 6 a.m. Wednesday, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials reminded the public that people who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana and prescription drugs, put everyone’s lives in danger.
During last year’s St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period, 11 people were arrested and booked into county jails on suspicion of impaired driving, according to the sheriff’s office. So far in 2026, 1,514 people have been arrested for impaired driving by law enforcement agencies in the county.
An impaired driving arrest and conviction can cost more than $15,000 in legal and court fees, according to the sheriff’s office.
Funding for the St. Patrick’s Day impaired driving enforcement program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! If you’re celebrating remember there are many options to get home safely. ☘️ pic.twitter.com/4xs1fvefzF