Police are continuing to urge motorists to plan ahead during the holidays after 67 impaired driving arrests since the start of this season’s Festive RIDE campaign just three weeks ago in the East Region OPP area.
This year’s campaign launched on Nov. 20 – 18 of those 67 drivers were arrested in the last week, reported OPP, in a week three update.
The East Region OPP coverage area extends from Quinte West to the Quebec boundary and northwest through the Ottawa Valley area. So far, police said they’ve conducted more than 800 RIDE checks, trying to clamp down on motorists impacted by alcohol and/or drugs.
Earlier this year, police warned a “robust” RIDE program was being initiated after a “staggering” spike in impaired driving throughout the year.
In addition to a future court date, all of the accused have had their licences suspended for 90 days, and the vehicles were impounded for seven days. Meanwhile, police reported that another 15 three-day licence suspensions for drivers found in the warning range after roadside sobriety tests have also been issued.
The Festive RIDE campaign continues until Jan. 1 and will reach major highways, rural roads and downtown areas.
Police continue to call on citizens to report suspected impaired driving by calling 911.
