Ottawa police charged 32 drunk drivers so far this year
Posted Jan 16, 2024 01:49:52 PM.
Last Updated Jan 16, 2024 01:51:15 PM.
Ottawa police have charged an average of two drivers a day with drunk driving related offenses since Jan. 1.
Ottawa Police Service (OPS) said despite the holidays being over, their impaired driving enforcement is still active.
This comes shortly after the OPPs festive RIDE program ended, which netted over 100 arrests during the holidays.
Drivers convicted of drunk driving could face a suspended license, fines or be sent to educational programs among others penalties.
Repeat offenders face steeper penalties, including having an in-car alcohol breath screening device that can stop the engine from running installed in their vehicle.
Further, they have a zero-tolerance policy for drivers aged 21 and under, novice drivers and commercial drivers.
Police encourage residents to call 911 when they see someone they believe may be driving while impaired.
