Ottawa Police Charge Drivers in Festive RIDE Campaign Crackdown

The Ottawa Police Service has charged several drivers with impaired driving offences and open alcohol violations during its ongoing Festive RIDE campaign aimed at enhancing road safety. Over the weekend, police engaged with more than 1,200 drivers at various RIDE checkpoints across the city, reinforcing their commitment to promoting sober driving.

On Friday evening, two drivers faced charges related to impaired driving. Additionally, one driver registered a “warn” on a breathalyzer test, resulting in a three-day licence suspension. Authorities also identified one driver who was already suspended from driving and charged them accordingly.

The following day, two drivers were charged for having open alcohol in their vehicles upon arriving at the RIDE checkpoint. Four additional drivers received three-day licence suspensions after blowing a “warn,” while another driver was found to be suspended and a separate individual charged for misusing licence plates.

Earlier in the week, on Thursday, police had already charged three drivers with offences related to impaired driving on Ottawa roads. The RIDE campaign has been a focal point for the Ottawa Police Service, which encourages responsible choices among drivers.

In a post on social media platform X, the police expressed gratitude to those who made safe decisions, stating, “Thank you to all who made responsible choices. Together, we keep our roads safe!”

The Festive RIDE campaign aims to deter impaired driving throughout the holiday season, a time when road safety is particularly crucial. Ottawa police continue to emphasize the importance of sober driving and the consequences of impaired behaviour on public safety.