Instead of relying on grants, every DUI conviction should add a fine sent directly to the law enforcement agency who made the arrest

Over the weekend, Officers with the Eureka Police Department made multiple arrests for driving under the influence, removing impaired drivers from Eureka roadways and helping keep the community safe.

On June 13, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a Eureka Police Sergeant came upon a vehicle that had collided with a utility pole. The driver, identified as Danielle Matson, 25, of Fortuna, was contacted and subsequently arrested fordriving under the influence.

Later that evening, at approximately 10:00 p.m., Officers responded to the 1700 block of Fourth Street for a report of a vehicle that had become stuck on a curb. The reporting party advised dispatch that the driver had been behaving erratically in a drive-thru, demanding food, and had struck the curb multiple times before becoming stranded. Officers contacted Daniel Miller, 37, of Eureka, who was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was taken into custody for driving under the influence.

Also, on June 13, Officers responded to the 1300 block of Fifth Street for a report of a driver asleep at the wheel. Upon arrival, Officers contacted Cody Hills, 35, of Eureka, who was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence.

On June 14, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m., an Officer observed a subject operating a motor scooter in the area of Wabash Avenue and A Street while exhibiting objective signs of impairment. The rider, identified as Eric Steward, 44, of Eureka, was contacted and detained. Following an investigation, Steward was arrested for operating a motor scooter while under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, and public intoxication.

Later that day, at approximately 6:15 p.m., Officers responded to the area of Clark Street and A Street for a report of a driver who appeared to be asleep behind the wheel. Officers contacted Gonzalo Martinez, 36, of Eureka, who was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence.

In 2025, the Eureka Police Department experienced a 26% increase in DUI arrests and a 21% increase in DUI-related collisions compared to 2024. Through the first five months of 2026, Eureka Police Officers have made 91 DUI arrests, compared to 93 during the same period in 2025.

The Eureka Police Department remains committed to reducing impaired driving and increasing roadway safety through proactive policing and targeted enforcement efforts. The arrests highlighted in this release were the result of officers actively patrolling the community, observing suspicious driving behavior, and responding to reports from concerned citizens. These efforts help identify and remove impaired drivers before they can cause serious injury or death.

Over the past year, EPD has received two grants that provide funding for dedicated DUI enforcement efforts, allowing officers additional opportunities to proactively identify and apprehend impaired drivers. EPD is hopeful these grants will be renewed for the 2026-2027 grant cycle, allowing the Department to continue its focused efforts to improve roadway safety and reduce alcohol- and drug-related collisions.

Driving under the influence is a preventable crime that places motorists, pedestrians, and the community at risk. The Eureka Police Department encourages anyone who observes a suspected impaired driver to safely report the information by calling 9-1-1. Through proactive policing, community partnerships, and continued enforcement, EPD remains committed to keeping Eureka's roadways safe.