RIDE Stop On Hwy 35 Results In Impaired Driving Charges For Bowmanville Resident

KAWARTHA LAKES-A 20-year-old Bowmanville resident is facing charges after coming across a RIDE check.

At approximately 3:30am on September 8^th, 2024, Members from the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP conducted a RIDE program on Highway 35 near Tower Road.

Police say during the RIDE, a vehicle travelling southbound failed to stop. Officers located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop and after speaking with the driver, the officer began an investigation into impaired driving.

20-year-old Rhys DIGNARD from Bowmanville was arrested and charged with

–      Operation while impaired

–      Operation while impaired- blood alcohol concentration (80plus)

–      Fail to slow down and proceed with caution for emergency vehicles

In addition to the charges, the driver received a 90-day licence suspension, and the motor vehicle was impounded for 7 days. The driver was released from custody with conditions and will appear later in court.

“Drivers are reminded that no amount of alcohol or drugs in your system is safe when driving. The OPP remains committed to taking alcohol/drug-impaired drivers off our roads through enforcement and public education. Arrive alive, drive sober.” said police.