Impaired Arrests at Spot Checks

Toronto police have laid 93 charges, issued 128 tickets and conducted 882 breath screenings since the provincial Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) campaign launched on November 20.

Officers also issued 20 warn-range licence suspensions and laid four breath test–related charges.

Traffic Services Staff Sergeant Paul Qureshi said the arrests and suspensions show that impaired driving remains a safety concern.

“These figures tell us that some people are still engaging in behaviour that puts public safety at risk and are not choosing alternatives to driving,” he said. “We continue to encourage the use of taxis, public transit or ride-sharing services, and to plan ahead.”

Qureshi said the holiday season brings more office and private parties where alcohol may be consumed, making advance planning especially important.

“People need to think ahead before drinking so our community stays safe,” he said.

During the festive RIDE season, Traffic Services officers are leading enforcement efforts, supported by officers from other divisions. Police are targeting drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.

“There is zero tolerance,” Qureshi added. “All police services and traffic safety partners are working together to make our roads safer.”

Since the campaign began nearly three weeks ago, police have stopped 6,886 vehicles across Toronto.

Learn the laws and consequences of impaired driving on the Ministry of Transporation website.