April 20 DUI checkpoint and law enforcement efforts

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 Wednesday, April 20 because of the unsanctioned gathering known as "4-20". The greatest impact is expected between 3-6 p.m.

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, or medical marijuana on the campus. Campus parking regulations will also be strictly enforced.

In addition to enforcing these 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.

As a campus we are still processing the very recent horrific car accident on Highway 1 that involved UC Santa Cruz students. This tragedy included marijuana use. Moreover, on April 9, the UC Santa Cruz Police Department arrested a College 9 student for DUI on Coolidge Drive, after being involved in a single vehicle traffic accident. Luckily, in this instance, none of the passengers were injured. We must continue to dialogue about the impacts of drugs and alcohol on this campus and to the greater Santa Cruz community.

There are potentially serious consequences of choosing to attend. We ask that individuals consider the risks and possible criminal penalties. Individuals affiliated with the campus are also subject to sanctions by the Student Conduct Office or Human Resources.

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 signage indicating the presence of the DUI checkpoint.