Hood River, OR. — The Hood River Police Department (HRPD) recently made two DUII arrests involving significant quantities of illegal drugs while reinforcing Oregon’s expanded impaired driving laws.
Under House Bill 2316, which took effect January 1, 2024, Oregon law broadened the definition of driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII) to include impairment from any substance—not just alcohol, cannabis, or controlled drugs. This includes over-the-counter medications and supplements if they impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
HRPD officials say the department has remained consistent in educating the public about these laws, but recent incidents underscore ongoing concerns about drug-impaired driving.
On March 16, 2026, an HRPD officer trained in detecting drug impairment conducted a traffic stop for a registration violation. The driver showed multiple signs of impairment and admitted to using methamphetamine and fentanyl approximately two hours earlier. The individual also told officers they had recently purchased large quantities of drugs from the Portland area.
A search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 84.3 grams of suspected methamphetamine and 35.5 grams of suspected fentanyl. The driver, who is a convicted felon, was also found in possession of brass knuckles, which they are prohibited from carrying.
The following day, March 17, another HRPD officer with specialized DUII training stopped a vehicle for expired registration. The driver displayed signs of impairment and performed poorly on field sobriety tests before being taken into custody. The driver admitted to recent methamphetamine use.
A search of that vehicle led to the seizure of 22.1 grams of suspected fentanyl and 1.4 grams of suspected methamphetamine.
Police say these types of incidents are not uncommon and serve as a reminder of the risks posed by impaired driving—particularly when involving potent narcotics like fentanyl.
HRPD is urging the public to understand that any substance that impairs driving ability can result in a DUII charge and potentially serious consequences for both drivers and the community.
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