The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) reported 21 drivers charged with impaired, exceed, or refuse offences during week five of its Festive RIDE campaign, a decrease of ten charges compared with the same week in 2024.
Although fewer tests were conducted—95 compared with 218 last year—the percentage of drivers charged was higher than in week five of 2024.
During the week, officers stopped 1,542 drivers, resulting in:
- 14 impaired driving charges
- 6 three-day suspensions for warning readings
- 1 drug-related charge
- 6 novice driver suspensions (zero tolerance for alcohol)
- 11 other criminal charges
- 140 Highway Traffic Act tickets
The RIDE program continued in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Durham, the Ontario Provincial Police Highway Safety Division, and DRPS auxiliary constables.
Police emphasized the importance of community involvement, thanking residents who reported suspected impaired drivers. “Many of these calls led to charges and the removal of impaired drivers from the road,” said DRPS.
Under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act, anyone charged with an impaired driving offence faces a 90-day licence suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment.
Authorities urge anyone who observes a suspected impaired driver to call 911 immediately.
Photo Credits : Insauga
