Weekend road checks rack up impressive statistics

PENTICTON – Penticton RCMP and the Ministry of Transportation were out in force conducting road checks over the weekend, racking up an impressive list of statistics in the process.

On June 19 and 20, 25 RCMP officers took part in the effort, which included the entire South Okanagan Traffic Services unit and some Penticton Municipal Traffic members. Nine members from other parts of Southeastern B.C. and three reserve constables also took part in the campaign.

RCMP says they made one impaired driving charge under the criminal code, issued 15 Immediate Roadside Prohibitions for impaired driving and handed out three, three-day Roadside Prohibitions. One 90 day Administrative Driving Prohibition was issued, as were four, 24-hour prohibitions.

The officers made six drug seizures without laying any charges, seized liquor on six occasions and charged one driver with possession for the purpose of trafficking. One cocaine possession charge was also laid, according to a media release.

Nine drivers were cited for driving while prohibited and two were served with Notices of Driving Prohibitions.

Police says they were also successful in recovering two stolen vehicles and three people were charged with possession of stolen property.

Twenty speeders and two dangerous drivers were issued tickets during the campaign.

About 7,000 vehicles, including 150 motorcycles, were checked for safety issues over the two days. 

In addition to motor vehicle infractions, the campaign also turned up drivers who had outstanding warrants.

Two middle aged male motorcycle drivers were fined for excessive speeding, in excess of 130 kph in an 80 kph zone.

Police noticed a “significant drop” in impaired driving following the first day of road checks.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Steve Arstad at sarstad@infonews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.