A two-day DUI enforcement operation in Rio Grande County on July 9 and July 10, 2026, resulted in 10 impaired driving arrests from 84 total traffic contacts, the Colorado State Patrol announced July 13, 2026.

The Colorado State Patrol's DUI Task Force partnered with local troopers and the Alamosa Police Department for the operation, which focused on major traffic arteries and feeder roads in Rio Grande County, with increased presence around the Ski-Hi Stampede in Monte Vista.

Full results from the operation:

Total contacts: 84 Total roadsides: 11 DUI arrests: 10 Seat belt citations: 5 Speeding citations: 16 Other citations: 10 Other arrests: 2

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In 2025, July and August were tied as the top months for impairment-caused crashes investigated by Colorado State troopers, with 207 crashes each. Year to date in Rio Grande County, Colorado State troopers have investigated 10 crashes involving an impaired driver, resulting in four injuries and one death.

The Colorado State Patrol reminds all drivers that impairment is 100 percent preventable. Drivers who plan to drink or use impairing substances should arrange a ride-share service, designate a sober driver, or stay where they are.

Motorists who observe a suspected impaired driver should move out of the way, then pull over and report the driver by calling *CSP (*277), 9-1-1, or 970-249-4392. Callers should be prepared to provide the vehicle description, license plate number, location and direction of travel, driver description, and the driving behavior observed.

Charges are merely accusations; all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.