Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers across the East Region have charged 34 motorists with impaired driving during the first week of the annual Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign.
Since the initiative launched on Thursday, November 20, 2025, officers have conducted more than 270 RIDE programs across the region. Hundreds of drivers were stopped as part of the OPP’s seasonal effort to reduce impaired driving and enhance road safety.
According to police, all 34 individuals arrested for impaired driving received an immediate 90-day licence suspension and had their vehicles impounded for seven days. Each driver is also required to appear in court to answer to the charges.
In addition to the arrests, officers issued seven three-day licence suspensions to drivers who registered in the “warning range” on an approved roadside alcohol screening device.
“Choosing to drive while impaired is putting your life, and the lives of everyone on the road at risk,” said Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander. “If you plan to drink or consume drugs, have a plan. That could include a designated driver, transit, a ride-share or taxi, or just stay put.”
The OPP reminds residents that RIDE checkpoints can take place anywhere and at any time, day or night. Anyone who suspects a driver may be impaired is urged to call 9-1-1, as doing so could save lives.
