Driver failed to stop for RIDE check in Goulais River: OPP

One driver was arrested after police say they failed to stop for a RIDE check program in Goulais River last night.

"Shortly after 10:15 p.m., police observed a black vehicle approaching Highway 552 from Goulais Bay Road and stopped before entering the RIDE check program," says a news release issued by Sault Ste. Marie OPP. "Using hand signals and their flashlights, officers gestured the vehicle to come forward. The vehicle eventually approached the RIDE check area, and slowly drove past the officers, and continued through a stop sign."

The driver was stopped a short time later and charged with impaired driving and other offences.

None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.

Full text of the news release follows:

On Nov. 22, 2023 shortly after 9:45 p.m., members from the Sault Ste. Marie Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting a Reducing Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) check at the intersection of Highway 552 and Goulais Bay Road in Fenwick Township.

Shortly after 10:15 p.m., police observed a black vehicle approaching Highway 552 from Goulais Bay Road and stopped before entering the RIDE check program. Using hand signals and their flashlights, officers gestured the vehicle to come forward. The vehicle eventually approached the RIDE check area, and slowly drove past the officers, and continued through a stop sign.

A subsequent traffic stop was initiated on Highway 552 West and while speaking to the driver police determined alcohol had been consumed. The driver was transported to Sault Ste. Marie detachment for further testing. The vehicle was towed and impounded for seven days.

As a result, Ever Perez, 43 years of age from Goulais River, was charged with:

    •    Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
    •    Fail to have insurance card
    •    Possess more than one licence
    •    Disobey stop sign - fail to stop

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Sault Ste Marie on Jan. 8, 2024.

The OPP's annual Festive RIDE campaign began on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, and continues through to Monday, Jan. 1, 2024. Expect to see officers out conducting RIDE checks in our communities and highways.

Have a plan before you go out to celebrate this holiday season and make the decision not to drive impaired. Arrange for a designated driver, call a taxi or stay overnight.