Over the course of the year, Life of the Party will let you know when the law enforcement will be exercising alcohol-related operations in Isla Vista and the surrounding community. We are telling you about these enforcement operations because we want you to be aware of the risks of driving under the influence not only on enforcement weekends, but every weekend.

This page defines each of the enforcement operations, so you’ll know what’s up all year long!

"DUI Check Point"

Definition: DUI Checkpoints are set up by law enforcement agencies to stop traffic on public streets and highways for the sole purpose of checking drivers for intoxication. Traffic volume permitting, all vehicles will be checked. If traffic volume becomes too heavy, vehicles will then be checked by a pre-set standard (such as every 3rd or 5th vehicle) to ensure objectivity.

Example: Motorists approaching the checkpoint will see informational signs advising them that a DUI checkpoint is ahead. Once diverted into the checkpoint lane, motorists will be detained for only a few moments while deputies explain the purpose of the checkpoint and check their driver’s licenses.

Official Info: DUI checkpoints are conducted to identify offenders and get them off the street, as well as educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving. A major component of these checkpoints is to increase awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and to encourage sober designated drivers.

“DUI Saturation Patrol”

Definition: A Saturation Patrol is when the Santa Barbara Sheriff Department assigns multiple patrol cars who are dedicated to watch for drivers under the influence. Unlike a DUI Checkpoint where all cars are stopped at a specific location, these patrol cars blanket the highways and side streets looking for signs of DUI.

Example: If a patrol car is assigned DUI Saturation Patrol they will be out on the road searching for potential DUI’s. If they see the signs of someone driving under the influence (swerving, driving too fast or too slow, etc.) they will pull them over under suspicion of DUI.

Official Info: Saturation patrols have proven to reduce impaired driving collisions by removing these drivers off the streets. The average American has a 30% chance of being killed or injured by an impaired driver.

"Shoulder Tap" or "Hey Mister"

Definition: A minor who has been hired as a decoy asks someone over the age of 21 to purchase alcohol for him or her.

Example: A minor is hanging around IV Market and asks a passing stranger who looks over the age of 21 to purchase alcohol for them. If the 21+ year old goes into IV Market and buys them alcohol, they will be charged with a misdemeanor for furnishing alcohol to a minor.

Official Info: According to the Sheriff's website, "Every person who sells, furnishes, gives, or causes to be sold, furnished, or given away, any alcoholic beverage to any person under the age of 21 years is guilty of a misdemeanor. This violation requires a mandatory court appearance and the fine imposed will be at the discretion of the judge."