EAST HANTS: Impaired driving remains a serious issue. Like at RCMP detachments across N.S., the officers with East Hants RCMP are focused on getting drivers who drive impaired off the roads.
In a release N.S. RCMP said they charged 1,625 drivers with impaired related offences. It breaks down as follows:
· 821 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Alcohol
· 72 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drug
· 142 charged with Refusal of a Demand Made by a Peace Officer
· 590 issued driving suspensions for Operating a Conveyance While Having Consumed Alcohol
Cpl. Lisa Croteau, spokeswoman with N.S. RCMP, said impaired driving investigations can be complex, especially when they involve both alcohol and drugs.
“This is why Nova Scotia RCMP officers receive a variety of training, and have several tools at their disposal,” she said. “Each day, RCMP members are working throughout the province to help keep the roads safer for everyone.”
The Laker News contacted East Hants RCMP S/Sgt. Cory Bushell to see if he could provide a breakdown for how many of those stats were in East Hants. It turns out the local force nabbed just 2.29 per cent of the overall final number of 1,625.
He provided the following information related to 2020 numbers: 25 charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Alcohol; three charged with Impaired Operation of a Conveyance by Drug; four charged with Refusal of a Demand Made by a Peace Officer; and five drivers were issued driving suspensions for Operating a Conveyance While Having Consumed.
“Impaired driving remains the leading criminal cause of death in Canada,” said S/Sgt. Bushell. “It is a serious issue, and an enforcement priority for the RCMP officers in East Hants.
“My team of members and public servants use a variety of techniques to deter, detect and interdict impaired drivers. However, we cannot be everywhere at once.”
He said the public can help them ensure the roads are safe for everyone.
“You can make a difference and perhaps save a life,” he said. “If you observe someone attempting to, or driving impaired, immediately call 911 and report.
“If you are hosting a function involving alcohol or other intoxicants, make sure your guests understand impaired driving is not acceptable and ensure options exist for them to get home safely.”
S/Sgt. Bushell said parents should talk to their children about the dangers and trouble impaired driving can afflict on them, others, and the community at large.
“Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, speak to your children about impaired driving and why it is absolutely unacceptable and model the behaviour you want them to display as they mature into adults,” said S/Sgt. Bushell.