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The Express Gazette
Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Teen Driver Arrested for DUI Wears T-Shirt Mocking Sobriety

California Highway Patrol shared photos of the arrest, highlighting the irony of the slogan.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Teen Driver Arrested for DUI Wears T-Shirt Mocking Sobriety

A 19-year-old in Monterey County, California, was arrested for driving under the influence while wearing a T-shirt that read, “This is no time to be sober.” The California Highway Patrol (CHP) shared images of the arrest on social media, drawing widespread reactions.

One of the images captured the teen wearing the slogan T-shirt, while another showed a close-up of him blowing into a breathalyzer device. The CHP used the post to remind drivers, particularly those under 21, about the importance of staying sober behind the wheel.

"Driving under the influence puts your life and the lives of others at risk. One bad decision can have lasting consequences," the CHP stated in their post. "Make responsible choices, stay sober, and never get behind the wheel impaired."

The incident quickly garnered attention on social media, with many users commenting on the irony of the T-shirt's message. Reactions ranged from amusement to criticism of the teen's choices and the perceived leniency of DUI consequences.

In 2024, the Monterey County District Attorney's office reported filing nearly 2,200 DUI cases, including drug and combined alcohol and drug offenses. California law, like that in many other states, prohibits driving with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.


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