OPP Say Number of Impaired Drivers Increases in Week Two of Festive RIDE

Police Say Forty-Five Motorists Have Been Arrested and Charged Since the Festive RIDE Began!

Smiths Falls – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers across the East Region have now charged a total of 45 motorists with impaired driving since the Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) initiative began two weeks ago. Last week’s total was 23.

“We know people are getting into the holiday spirit, but impaired driving can instantly change a celebration to a tragedy. It’s a simple message if you drink or consume drugs, don’t get behind the wheel.” -Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander.

Officers have conducted over 380 Festive RIDE programs since November 21, 2024, stopping nearly 1000 vehicles to ensure the drivers were not impaired by alcohol or drugs.

In addition to the impaired driving arrests, officers also issued 14 warnings, resulting in those drivers being issued licence suspensions and having their vehicles impounded.

RIDE programs can happen anywhere, anytime – day or night.

If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 9-1-1. You could be saving lives.