The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Traffic Escort & Enforcement Unit conducted an impaired driving initiative this past weekend, with 18 Impaired Focus Areas with officers screening for signs of impairment.
A key component of OPS’ 2025 Enhanced Integrated Enforcement Initiative includes 18 Impaired Focus Areas throughout the city, noted OPS.
“We’re evolving OPS’ Enhanced Integrated Enforcement Initiative to include 18 Impaired Focus Areas throughout the city as a part of the Ottawa Police Service’s prioritization of road safety in 2025,” said Sergeant Craig Roberts, OPS District Traffic Manager.
According to OPS, Ottawa saw a rise in impaired driving leading up to the holidays this past December — charging 56 people with impaired driving since the start of the Festive RIDES on November 28.
“This marks an increase from last year when there were 48 drivers charged over the same period,” wrote OPS in a press release.
This past Friday evening, Central B Platoon officers were stationed along Sussex Drive and made 48 ASD demands, wrote OPS Traffic Escort & Enforcement in an X post.
ASDs (approved screening devices) are portable screening devices used to determine whether a person has consumed alcohol.
“Heading out this weekend(?)…if so, be sure to take Impaired Driving out of the equation. Do not continue those who continue to “chance it” by driving while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs,” wrote OPS in an X post.
The Ottawa Police Service’s West “C” Platoon was deployed to an Impaired Focus Area this past January, as a part of the OPS Enhanced Integrated Enforcement Initiative 2025, wrote OPS in an Instagram post.
According to OPS, officers checked 70 drivers for signs of impairment — resulting in seven ASD demands along with four tickets issued for Highway Traffic Act and Cannabis Control Act violations.
“If you suspect someone is driving impaired, please call 9-1-1 immediately. Your actions could help save lives,” said Ottawa police.