EASTERN ONTARIO – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) across East Region conducted more than 1,500 Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) programs between Nov. 26, 2020 and Jan. 3.

“Officers arrested and charged 92 people for impaired driving related offences, while another 31 motorists were issued Administrative Drivers’ Licence Suspensions after registering in the warning range on the approved roadside screening device,” OPP media relations coordinator Const. Bill Dickson released in a statement today (Jan. 4).

“These individuals are putting not only their own lives at risk, but also those of passengers, other motorists and pedestrians,” Insp. Dave Tovell, OPP’s East Region Traffic and Marine manager, said. “Impaired driving, whether it’s alcohol or drugs, can have deadly consequences. RIDE programs are not just part of the festive season. They can happen anywhere anytime. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, please call 911. You could be saving lives.”

In Renfrew County, six drivers were charged during the Festive RIDE program.

“During this year’s Festive RIDE campaign Renfrew OPP officers conducted 108 RIDE checks in the Renfrew OPP detachment area,” media relations officer Const. Tina Hunt released in a statement today. “Over the course of the campaign six drivers were charged with impaired driving, over 80mg or refusal.”

In addition to the Criminal Code driving charges, seven roadside driver’s licence suspensions were also issued during the campaign for drivers who registered in the warn range on a Roadside Screening Device.

“Although the Festive RIDE campaign has concluded the Renfrew OPP is committed to making our roadways safe and RIDE programs will continue throughout the year at any time of the day or night,” Hunt said.