THUNDER BAY — Police and conservation officers joined forces in the region to conduct a joint RIDE program.
OPP officers, along with members from the Ministry of Natural Resources, set up on Sunday along Highway 527, stopping motorists and boaters, conducting mandatory alcohol screening and fish and wildlife inspection.
The initiative's goal was to educate residents and tourists about hunting safety, as well as to ensure that everyone used the roads and waterways safely without intoxication, according to a news release issued Tuesday.
Close to 500 motor vehicles and vessels were inspected by officers from both agencies.
A total of 80 drivers underwent roadside alcohol screening, with no impaired drivers detected; however, several other charges and cautions were issued:
MNR:
- 1 charge for possessing an overlimit of fish
- 2 warnings for taking aggregate without a permit
- 3 warnings for failing to remove plug from boat
- 9 warnings were given for fish improperly skinned or packaged
Additionally, 4 black bears were inspected
OPP:
- 1 charge for driving a motor vehicle with a speed measuring warning device
- 1 warning for possessing more than one licence
- 1 warning for driving a motor vehicle, no validation on plate
- 2 warnings for insecure load
- 2 warnings for draw trailer, no plate
The charge for driving with a speed measuring device, or radar detector, was laid against a Minnesota driver. The prohibited device was seized.
A 61-year-old driver from Thunder Bay was charged for operating a vehicle while prohibited. The driver was released at the scene, however the car was towed and has been impounded for 45 days and he has a future court date.
