CORNWALL, Ontario – During the month of December, members of the Cornwall Police Service (CPS) were targeting impaired drivers, as part of the monthly traffic initiative. With the assistance of funding provided by the provincial government, the CPS was able to conduct a total of ten RIDE programs during the month of December. A total of 2,388 cars were checked which resulted in the following types of enforcement:
* 26 Approved Screening Device Tests
* 2 Intoxilyzer Tests (alcohol)
* 9 Standard Field Sobriety Tests (drugs)
* 2 Drug Recognition Expert Evaluations (drugs)
* 1 Arrested and charged for being impaired by alcohol
* 1 Arrested for being impaired by alcohol; released unconditionally after breath test
* 2 Arrested for being impaired by drugs; released unconditionally after drug evaluation
* 5 Three-day suspensions issued for alcohol consumption in the warn range
* 3 Three-day suspensions for drug consumption while G2 class licence
* 1 Three-day suspension for alcohol consumption while G2 class licence
* 10 Highway Traffic Act warnings
* 13 Highway Traffic Act charges
* 8 Cannabis Control Act charges
* 4 Criminal Code Charges
* 1 Liquor Licence Act charge
“Despite the dangers associated to impaired driving, the statistics are proof that motorists are continuing to make the socially irresponsible decision to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs,” said Inspector of Field Operations, Chad Maxwell. “The CPS will continue to conduct RIDE programs and enforcement throughout 2020, in order to ensure the safety of our roadways and everyone who uses them.”
Enhancing traffic safety is a major objective within the CPS Strategic Plan. As such, monthly safety initiatives have been developed to keep the public informed and promote safer roadways and bike paths. These initiatives will be carried out by the Traffic Unit, as well as Community Patrol Officers. During the month of January, officers will be focusing on windshield and plate obstructions. The CPS is asking all motorists to ensure all windows, lights and licence plates on your vehicle are clear of snow and not obstructing your view, or the view for other drivers.