On Saturday, September 5, 2026, several area police services joined together for a Joint Forces R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) initiative aimed at providing a strong and visible police presence throughout the City of Owen Sound. The initiative focused on the enforcement and deterrence of impaired driving and other traffic-related offences.

Participating agencies included the Owen Sound Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Saugeen Shores Police Service, Hanover Police Service, and West Grey Police Service.

The joint traffic enforcement initiative resulted in the following:

• 1,070 drivers were checked for sobriety;
• 9 drivers were administered roadside alcohol screening tests, all of whom passed;
• 12 drivers received warnings for Highway Traffic Act-related offences; and
• 2 drivers were issued Provincial Offence Notices for failing to wear seatbelts.

During the initiative, officers stopped a driver who was found to have cannabis readily available within the vehicle. As a result, the driver was subjected to further roadside testing and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of impaired driving. The driver was transported to an Ontario Provincial Police detachment, where a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) conducted additional evaluations to determine whether the driver was impaired by drugs.

Following the assessment, it was determined that the driver was not impaired. The individual was subsequently issued a Provincial Offence Notice for operating a vehicle with cannabis readily available to the driver, contrary to Section 12(1) of the Cannabis Control Act, and was released from custody.

While officers were operating a R.I.D.E. checkpoint, an officer observed a male at a nearby business who appeared to be in medical distress, believed to be related to suspected drug consumption. Further investigation led to the arrest of the individual and the seizure of a small quantity of suspected fentanyl.

The individual was later released unconditionally into the care of Grey Bruce Paramedic Services, who attended the scene to provide medical assessment and treatment.

The Owen Sound Police Service would like to thank its policing partners for their collaboration and continued commitment to enhancing road safety and promoting public safety throughout our communities.