Police laid 629 charges in the region over the Thanksgiving weekend.
From Oct. 6-9, OPP officers conducted several RIDE spot checks and traffic enforcement initiatives with a focus on the “big four,” including impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and seatbelt infractions.
In Dufferin County, police laid 239 traffic related charges including 121 speeding charges, nine stunt/racing charges, five impaired driving charges, and 12 seatbelt charges, in addition to 92 others.
The Huronia West detachment, laid a total of 390 traffic related charges while patrolling Clearview, Wasaga Beach and Springwater including 202 speeding charges, nine seatbelt charges, five distracted driving charges, four impaired driving charges, and three stunt driving charges, in addition to 121 others.
“[The] OPP would like to thank the majority of road users that obey laws and assist in keeping our roads safe,” said police. “Thank you as well to our hard-working officers last weekend for their efforts and dedication in keeping our communities safe.”
Huronia West OPP was also conducting ATV enforcement on the weekend resulting in a total of 41 charges including 31 charges under the Off Road Vehicles Act, 10 charges under the Trespass to Property Act and one charge under the Liquor License and Control Act. Officers also laid charges for failing to wear a proper helmet, failing to securely fasten the chin strap, having no insurance, no licence plate and permitting a child under the age of 12 to operate an off-road vehicle.
“OPP officers on patrol remind all Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) riders that an essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on our trails. Through community partnerships with ORV organizations such as the OFATV and the Safe andSober Awareness Committee, we strive to educate the public about safe ORV operation practices,” said police.
Police encourage everyone who suspects someone is operating a motor vehicle, boat or off-road vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to call 9-1-1.
“Highway, trail, and waterway safety is a shared responsibility. By working together, the OPP and members of the public can ensure everyone’s safety,” said police.
Anyone with information about a crime is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) to remain anonymous. Information can also be submitted online at www. crimestopperssdm.com. Tips may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.