Colorado DUI Enforcement in Rio Grande County Results in 10 Arrests

Description: Colorado State Patrol’s July 9–10 DUI enforcement operation in Rio Grande County resulted in 10 DUI arrests, 84 contacts and multiple traffic citations...

Results: State Troopers Increase Presence to Stop Impaired Drivers

The event has concluded

(Colorado) - The Colorado State Patrol's DUI Task Force partnered with local troopers and the Alamosa Police Department and added extra enforcement for travelers in Rio Grande County on July 9 and July 10, 2026. 

Results from the event:

• Total Contacts: 84
  • Total number of roadsides: 11
  • DUI Arrests: 10
  • Seat Belt Citations: 5
  • Speeding Citations: 16
  • Other Citations: 10
  • Other Arrests: 2

The Colorado State Patrol reminds all drivers that impairment is 100% preventable. If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, plan ahead: use a ride-share service, designate a sober driver, or stay where you are.

(Denver, CO) - The Colorado State Patrol DUI Task Force will conduct increased patrols in partnership with local troopers and the Alamosa Police Department in Rio Grande County on Friday, July 9, and Saturday, July 10, 2026. This operation focuses on deterring impaired driving on Rio Grande County's major traffic arteries and feeder roads. An increased law enforcement presence will be noticed around the Ski-Hi Stampede in Monte Vista.

While impaired driving will be the focus, any dangerous driving behavior observed or reported will be addressed. Year after year, the number of DUI-caused crashes increases during warmer months. In 2025, July and August were tied with 207 crashes each, as the top months for impairment-caused crashes investigated by Colorado State troopers.

Looking specifically at Rio Grande County, year to date, there have been 10 crashes investigated by Colorado State Troopers that involved an impaired driver. These crashes resulted in four injuries and one death.

This special operation aims to stop impaired driving "in its tracks" to save lives. State troopers and officers will focus on the detection and apprehension of drivers who may be impaired by or otherwise under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of these substances. If you plan to attend community events or parties, arrange a rideshare or a designated driver. If at a friend's house, stay over until morning. Don't risk your life or a neighbor's by driving while intoxicated. Always plan a sober ride.

We are asking the public for assistance in reporting suspected impaired drivers. The driver should be avoided by getting out of the way. Then, contact the Colorado State Patrol after you pull over by calling *CSP (*277), 9-1-1, or 970-249-4392. Be prepared to provide the following information: vehicle description, license plate number, location and direction of travel, driver description, and the driving behavior being demonstrated. All emergency calls can be made to 9-1-1.

Participating Agencies:

• Colorado State Patrol – Statewide DUI Team
• Colorado State Patrol – Alamosa Troop Office
• Alamosa Police Department

Troopers continue to take a low-tolerance approach to the top fatal crash factors, including impaired driving. The Colorado State Patrol reminds motorists to plan for a sober ride, drive at the speed limit, and maintain their lane position based on the current driving conditions.

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