Durham Regional Police conducted an extensive R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, leading to multiple charges and highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving across Durham Region.
According to DRPS, officers stopped a total of 837 vehicles during the initiative, which ran through the weekend and into the early morning hours of March 18, 2026. The enforcement effort aimed to identify impaired drivers and promote road safety during a time when alcohol consumption is typically higher.
Out of the hundreds of drivers stopped, 38 individuals were subjected to roadside breath tests. Police reported that five drivers registered a “WARN” range, resulting in immediate seven-day licence suspensions under Ontario’s impaired driving laws. In addition, four drivers were charged with impaired driving offences, facing more serious legal consequences.
Police also confirmed that one individual was arrested for violating a Criminal Code driving prohibition, adding to the seriousness of the enforcement results. Beyond impaired driving, officers issued 52 charges under the Highway Traffic Act, addressing various other traffic violations observed during the campaign.
One notable incident occurred on March 17 in downtown Whitby, where officers observed a driver failing to stop at a stop sign before entering a licensed establishment. The driver was stopped and assessed by R.I.D.E. officers, who determined that alcohol had been consumed.
A roadside breath test showed the driver was in the WARN range, resulting in an immediate licence suspension. Further investigation revealed the individual was already under a Criminal Code driving prohibition, as well as two additional provincial licence suspensions. Police also discovered the driver had outstanding warrants in other jurisdictions.
The individual was arrested at the scene and charged accordingly. Their vehicle was impounded for 45 days under Ontario’s Vehicle Impoundment Program, reflecting the severity of the violations.
Durham Regional Police continue to stress that impaired driving remains a major public safety concern. Drivers charged with criminal impaired driving offences face automatic 90-day licence suspensions and seven-day vehicle impoundments, along with court appearances and potential long-term consequences.
As of January 1, 2026, stricter penalties are also in place for drivers who register a WARN. These include escalating licence suspensions, mandatory education or treatment programs, and financial penalties for repeat offences.
Police are urging residents to plan ahead, avoid driving under the influence, and report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1.
The results of this R.I.D.E. campaign serve as a reminder that enforcement efforts will continue across Durham Region to keep roads safe and prevent impaired driving incidents.
