Sudbury police say drivers should expect random roadside checks this Holiday season

Greater Sudbury police launch their festive RIDE campaign. With one impaired driver arrested on average daily, they warn of increased checkpoints.

Wednesday in Sudbury marked the official start of the Festive Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere, known as the Festive RIDE campaign.

Officers will be out day and night in random locations throughout Greater Sudbury looking for people who get behind the wheel impaired.

At a news conference, a Sudbury police officer administered a mandatory alcohol screening device at a Festive RIDE Check. The driver passed the screening.

It was part of the formal launch of the RIDE campaign, which is now underway across the province.

“In Sudbury, unfortunately, we have on average about one impaired driver arrested per day,” said Sgt. Blair Ramsay.

“You are going to see us out during the daytime, you are going to see us out during the nighttime. We have increased patrols throughout the festive season. It’s a little busier this time of year so you are going to see us out there -- so be prepared.”

Kim Hancock was at the RIDE check, passing out bookmarks and red ribbons. Hancock’s teen son, DJ, was killed in a crash involving a drunk driver.

‘It’s not worth it’

It’s something no family should have to endure, she said.

“Don’t change anybody’s life forever -- it’s not worth it,” she said.

“There are lots of options out there and just remember DJ if you think about getting into your car and driving.”

Police are reminding drivers they have several choices when they choose to drink or use drugs. That includes Safe Ride Home Sudbury, which starts Friday and runs through until New Years Eve.

“We will drive you and your vehicle home by a team of volunteers, and you will arrive home safely,” said Lesli Green, president of Safe Ride Home Sudbury.

“It’s a free service, but we do rely on donations.”

The ride service is in need of volunteers right now. Greater Sudbury Police said the community should expect Festive RIDE checks, anytime, anywhere.

Last Holiday season, a total of 3,243 drivers were checked.