Impaired driving charges down 44% during Festive Ride campaign

WELLINGTON COUNTY – Impaired driving charges were down by more than 40% during Wellington County OPP’s recent Festive Ride campaign.

According to a Jan. 5 press release from the OPP’s West Region, Wellington OPP officers conducted 182 Festive RIDE events between Nov. 20 and Jan. 1, laid 18 impaired driving charges and issued seven warning-range suspensions.

During the 2024-25 campaign local police conducted fewer events (125) but laid 44% more impaired driving charges (32), with zero warning-range suspensions.

Western region

Across the western region, 13 detachments conducted 3,095 Festive RIDE events this season, laying 269 impaired driving charges and issuing 40 warning-range suspensions.

Last season the totals were 1,938, 292 and 19, respectively.

“West Region remains committed to keeping our roads safe through proactive RIDE programs and focused impaired-driving enforcement efforts,” stated Inspector Michael McConnell, the region’s traffic and marine manager.

“We remind all drivers to plan ahead, make responsible choices and always drive sober. If you’ve been drinking, arrange a safe ride home.”

Police say those who suspects someone is driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs should call 911 to report it.

Province-wide

OPP officials say officers conducted 11,130 Festive RIDE events across the province this season, resulting in 1,268 impaired driving charges and 150 warning-range suspensions.

Last season the province-wide figures were 9,268, 743 and 155, respectively.