'Concerning statistic': WPS release stats from drug-impaired driving enforcement project
Data from the first day of a drug-impaired driving enforcement project in Winnipeg shows about one in four drivers stopped were in contravention of various laws, including driving under the influence of cannabis.
The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) says the project, which is in partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), launched Tuesday.
The first day resulted in 35 traffic stops, 11 oral fluid tests with four testing positive for cannabis, and five Provincial Offences Act notices issued for unlawful storage of cannabis.
Police say early statistics show there are nine violations per 35 police interactions, or about one in four drivers who were in contravention of various laws.
“This is a concerning statistic which compromises safety for all users of our roadways and has the potential to lead to tragic outcomes. We have taken notice and are taking action,” the service said in a news release.
The project was launched in response to the 2018 legalization in cannabis, which WPS said heightened the need for officers to be on the lookout for drivers under the influence.
The enforcement project is focused on detecting and processing drivers under the influence of cannabis and other drugs throughout the city.
"Enforcement is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to making our roads safer," said Insp.Marc Philippot of the WPS’s central traffic division.
"Keeping our roadways safe starts with us choosing to always plan for a safe ride home. Please do your part."
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Donald Trump, Elon Musk attend rally at same Pennsylvania grounds where gunman tried to assassinate Trump
Donald Trump returned on Saturday to the Pennsylvania fairgrounds where he was nearly assassinated in July, holding a sprawling rally with thousands of supporters in a critical swing state Trump hopes to return to his column in November's election.
'No one has $70,000 dollars lying around': Toronto condo owners facing massive special assessment
The owners of a North York condominium say they are facing a $70,000 special assessment to fix their building's parking garage. '$70,000 is a lot of money. It makes me very nervous and stressed out of nowhere for this huge debt to come in,' said Ligeng Guo.
Police ID mom, daughter killed in Old Montreal; video shows person break into building before fatal fire
Police released the identities of the mother and daughter who were killed after a fire tore through a 160-year-old building in Old Montreal on Friday.
Tropical Storm Milton forms in Gulf of Mexico, could intensify as a hurricane threatening Florida
Tropical Storm Milton has formed in the Gulf of Mexico. It is located 220 miles (355 kilometres) north-northeast of Veracruz, Mexico.
'I screamed in shock and horror': Family faces deadly Vancouver hit-and-run driver during sentencing
The sentencing of the man who pleaded guilty in the deadly hit-and-run in Kitsilano two years ago began on Friday.
Frequent drinking of fizzy beverages and fruit juice are linked to an increased risk of stroke: research
New data raises questions about the drinks people consume and the potential risks associated with them, according to researchers at Galway University in Ireland, in partnership with Hamilton’s McMaster University.
Northwestern Ont. woman charged with arson with disregard for human life
A 30-year-old northwestern Ontario woman has been charged with arson following a structure fire Thursday night, police say.
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi draws a crowd for arrival at Toronto's BMO Field
Argentine star Lionel Messi was on the bench to start Inter Miami CF's game in Toronto on Saturday.
Looking for cheap flights for the holidays? Here are some tips to remember
Travelling on a budget can be stressful, but there are ways you can ensure you're getting the best deal on flights as the holiday season approaches.