The California Highway Patrol says it made 308 DUI arrest during its Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period.
Over a focused two-day period, from December 24 at 6:01 PM to December 25 at 11:59 PM, the California Highway Patrol worked tirelessly to ensure everyone made it safely to their holiday destinations. Here are the results of the Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP):
DUI Enforcement:
- 308 DUI arrests statewide, taking impaired drivers off the roads to protect all travelers.
Citations Issued:
- A total of 3,835 citations, including speeding, seatbelt violations, and other traffic infractions.
Enforcement Actions:
- 7,622 enforcement actions, highlighting the CHP’s commitment to road safety during the holidays.
Last year, during the 78-hour Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period, 20 people lost their lives in crashes within CHP jurisdiction. In addition, CHP officers made over 900 arrests for driving under the influence.
CHP says the holidays should be a time of celebration, not tragedy. Let’s continue to prioritize safety and responsibility on the road.
“This time of year is about celebrating with family and friends, but it’s also a time when traffic incidents increase due to poor driving decisions,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “Each of us has a role in making California’s roads safer. Let’s work together to keep this holiday season free of tragedy.”
Holiday Watch: CHP Holds Retail Theft Campaign
The California Highway Patrol announced in the final shopping days before Christmas,they have conducted a successful statewide enforcement operation targeting organized retail crime, ensuring safer shopping experiences for communities across California.
The operation, conducted on Friday, December 20, led to:
- 117 arrests for organized retail theft and related offenses.
- The recovery of 767 stolen items valued at $38,290.70, including clothing, shoes, and fragrances.
- The seizure of two illegal firearms and the recovery of three stolen vehicles.
This collaborative effort involved 10 California law enforcement agencies and 56 retail partners, enhancing in-store security and improving crime reporting. Increased law enforcement presence in high-traffic shopping areas also helped deter further crimes.
Participating agencies included the Hemet Police Department, Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Glendale Police Department, Bakersfield Police Department, Woodland Police Department, Walnut Creek Police Department, Livermore Police Department, and San Ramon Police Department.

Previous California Highway Patrol Maximum Enforcement Periods in 2024:
- Dec 3 – CHP Makes 1,113 DUI Arrests During Thanksgiving Weekend Enforcement
- July 9 – CHP Makes Over 1,600 Arrests in July 4 Holiday Enforcement
- May 29 – CHP Makes Over 1,350 Arrests During Memorial Day Weekend
- Jan 1 – CHP Highlights New Traffic Safety Laws for 2024
