Fresno Police have announced an urgent crackdown on drunk driving this weekend, warning drivers to stay safe and sober. The operation kicks off at 6 P.M. on Saturday, December 9, 2023, and will run until 4 A.M. on Sunday, with 11 extra officers deployed specifically to patrol for impaired drivers.
“The biggest thing is, don’t risk it,” stated Sergeant Todd Turney from Fresno Police. Officers will be on the lookout for common traffic violations associated with driving under the influence, including weaving and speeding. This crackdown coincides with an increase in holiday celebrations, prompting authorities to take action.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by a recent tragic incident where Carlos and Maria Pimentel were killed by a suspected DUI driver, Shawn Borecha, in Coalinga. Investigators report that Borecha attempted to overtake two vehicles while intoxicated, resulting in a fatal collision. He now faces two counts of murder.
In 2025 alone, the California Highway Patrol noted over 5,500 DUI cases across the county, with 423 felonies causing “great” injury and eight cases charged as murder. Tragically, these preventable crashes claimed the lives of 15 victims this year.
“When you impair your ability to operate the vehicle, bad things happen, such as a collision,” said Sgt. Turney. “You can affect people and members of the community, as well as yourself.”
The financial stakes are high as well, with the average cost of a DUI exceeding $13,000 for first-time offenders, including fines and a suspended license. Police are urging the public to make safe plans for travel, whether by using a rideshare service, arranging a family member to drive, or relying on a friend.
As the weekend approaches, authorities remind everyone to plan ahead and prioritize safety. The message is clear: don’t risk it — protect yourself and the community.
Stay tuned for further updates as the crackdown unfolds, and follow the latest developments in Fresno’s fight against drunk driving.
