A spokesperson for the Caledon detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is concerned about the growing number of impaired driving charges laid in the area.
Most recently, police charged two drivers with impaired operation on the same shift last week. Acting Sgt. Joe Brisbois said impaired charges were up 27 per cent this year from January until the end of June.
“We had 77 charges last year during the first six months. This year we are already at 98. If we look at the five-year average, we are up 35 per cent so definitely an increase.”
Provincially, the OPP has seen an increase of nearly 20 per cent in impaired charges so far in 2024. Brisbois explained he can’t say exactly why so many people have decided to take the wheel while impaired but they are.
“People are making bad decisions, bad choices and taking unnecessary risks really.”
Police have been able to make impaired arrests through traditional police tools but a number of charges this year have included collisions.
“It could also be the result of a RIDE spot check which some folks think we only do around the holidays but we do that year-round. We also have people calling in to report suspected impaired drivers and lastly just by patrolling the area. We see a vehicle being driven in a way that is concerning.”
Several recent charges have included open liquor or booze available to the driver, an additional charge.
“I don’t know if there has been an increase year-over-year but we see it often,” Brisbois said.
There are other options for drivers who shouldn’t be getting behind the wheel, he added.
“It’s pretty simple. If you are planning on doing drugs or drinking just don’t drive. There are other ways to get to your destination safely. Arrange for a designated driver, take a taxi, ridesharing service or public transportation.”
He added passengers also have a responsibility to speak up if they suspect the driver is impaired.
The two charges last week saw a 49-year-old Caledon man and a 23-year-old from Rexdale charged. The younger driver also faces one count of being under the influence while being a novice driver. Brisbois explained the rules are different for those under the age of 22 or having a G1 or G2 license.
“Young and novice drivers cannot consume any alcohol or drugs before operating a motor vehicle. They must have zero traces of alcohol or drugs.”
