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The numbers are getting better, but they're still far from perfect, as some local motorists apparently continue to get behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
South Simcoe Police Service released the results of its recently concluded 2023 Festive RIDE campaign Jan. 2. The program, which ran throughout the holiday season, and related patrols stopped 3,200 drivers in Bradford and Innisfil.
There were 15 people arrested for impaired driving-related offences linked to alleged alcohol or drug consumption, resulting in 33 charges laid.
"It's disappointing that people continue to gamble with their safety and the safety of others by driving impaired,” traffic and marine unit Sgt. Jessica Irwin said in a media release. “RIDE checks will continue year-round as part of our efforts to keep our roads safe. Impaired driving is 100 (per cent) preventable if you make the right choice by planning ahead and using the many options available to get home safely. Do your part. Drive sober or don't drive."
A total of 88 drivers were tested with a roadside alcohol screening device. Of those, eight were issued ‘warn range’ licence suspensions between three to seven days in length.
However, the results actually showed improvement when compared to the 2022 campaign. That year, officers stopped nearly 2,000 vehicles and laid 47 criminal charges, with 21 people arrested and charged as a direct result of RIDE programs or other impaired-related investigations.
Also in 2022, licence suspensions were handed out to an additional 13 people who apparently had alcohol or drugs in their system.
Anyone with information regarding a potential police matter can call officers at 905-775-3311 or 705-436-2141, or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestopperssdm.com.
