The MADD Canada tree lighting took place in King Square last week with officers from K.V. and Saint John. In an effort to reduce impaired driving, the Festive R.I.D.E. program continues throughout December. Image from KPRF Twitter.

An initiative to reduce drunk driving checked more than 1,400 vehicles in the Saint John area between December 1st and the 4th.

Saint John Police has partnered with New Brunswick Justice and Public Safety, Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, and the MADD Saint John & Area Chapter to conduct our annual Festive R.I.D.E. Campaign during December to reduce impaired driving everywhere.

Officers conducted 158 mandatory roadside screening tests and issued three seven-day suspensions during the first weekend of the Festive R.I.D.E. program.

Two people were arrested for impaired driving, two drivers were suspended and officers also found one prohibited driver.

Every year, MADD Canada said hundreds of people are killed and thousands are hurt in collisions which involve alcohol, cannabis and other drugs.

The organization’s latest statistics show that nearly 87,000 federal charges and provincial short-term suspensions are laid for impaired driving annually.

That number averages out to about 10 charges and short-term suspensions handed out to drivers every hour.

“As the holiday season approaches and celebrations begin, please plan ahead and designate a sober driver. It is our collective responsibility, police and community together, to ensure our roads are safe. If you encounter a driver that you believe is impaired, please call 911.” Constable Travis Jones, Festive R.I.D.E. Coordinator.

https://t.co/NSzCLppC4J pic.twitter.com/VhQGosmWI2

— Saint John Police (@saintjohnpolice) November 30, 2022