WRPS stop over 10,000 vehicles during Festive R.I.D.E. campaign
Posted Jan 5, 2026 04:03:51 PM.
Last Updated Jan 6, 2026 09:27:40 AM.
While people were off enjoying holiday festivities with friends and family, Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) and forces across the province were busy keeping an eye on the roads.
Once again this year, WRPS participated in the Festive R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign.
The annual tradition sees police set up checkpoints on various roads where drivers are stopped and checked for impaired driving or other potential violations.
According to WRPS, over 10,600 vehicles were stopped at R.I.D.E. checks between Nov. 20, 2025 and Jan 1, 2026.
As a result, the following charges were laid:
- Six impaired related charges (three for being impaired by alcohol and three for having a blood alcohol level over 80)
- Four three-day suspensions
- 43 Highway Traffic Act charges
- Four Liquor Licence and Control Act charges
“Driving impaired is a choice that puts lives at risk,” said Staff Sergeant Scott Griffiths, WRPS, Traffic Services Unit. “While we are encouraged by the many drivers making responsible decisions, we will continue to focus on enforcement and education to prevent tragedies on our roads.”
OPP R.I.D.E
Just like WRPS, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were participating in the Festive R.I.D.E. campaign.
Across the province, OPP conducted 11,130 stops with 1,268 impaired charges laid.
In OPP West Region, which includes Waterloo Region, provincial police laid 269 impaired driving charges.
“West Region remains committed to keeping our roads safe through proactive RIDE programs and focused impaired-driving enforcement efforts,” said Inspector Michael McConnell/OPP West Region Traffic and Marine Manager. “We remind all drivers to plan ahead, make responsible choices, and always drive sober-if you’ve been drinking, arrange a safe ride home.”
