Ontario Provincial Police say their annual Festive RIDE campaign is already leading to dozens of impaired driving arrests across the East Region.
In the first week of the initiative, which began November 20, officers charged 34 drivers with impaired driving. Police conducted more than 270 RIDE checkpoints, stopping hundreds of motorists to ensure they were not impaired by alcohol or drugs.
All 34 drivers received an immediate 90-day licence suspension and had their vehicles impounded for seven days. Each person also has a scheduled court date.
Officers issued an additional seven three-day suspensions to drivers who blew in the “warning range” on a roadside screening device.
Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm says the message is simple: impaired driving puts lives at risk. “If you plan to drink or consume drugs, have a plan,” she said, urging people to use designated drivers, transit or taxis.
Police say RIDE checkpoints can appear anytime. Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is asked to call 911.
