Image: Martin Brayley / Dreamstime / Police officer gives a breathalyser alcohol impairment test.

By Don Mitchell

volunteers needed

Nearly a dozen impaired drivers removed from Abbotsford roads ‘concerning’ ahead of ‘Red Nose’ launch: police

Nov 10, 2024 | 9:38 AM

ABBOTSFORD – Ahead of campaigns targeting impaired drivers on Abbotsford roads this holiday season, the Abbotsford Police Department (APD) reported encountering nearly a dozen impaired drivers during Friday night patrols.

In a social media post, the department shared that 11 drivers were removed from city roadways and highlighted the upcoming Operation Red Nose campaign, which will be announced on Wednesday.

‘This number is concerning,’ APD said. ‘Our officers will continue patrols to ensure our roadways are safe.’

Overnight, our AbbyPD Traffic Unit removed 11 Impaired drivers from our roads. This number is concerning. Our officers will continue to be out, ensuring our roadways are safe. There are many options for a safe ride home, including Operation Red Nose, which kicks off in December. pic.twitter.com/cxA6ueoshD

— Abbotsford Police Department (@AbbyPoliceDept) November 9, 2024

Prior to the weekend removals, APD revealed Friday morning they’ve dealt with 635 impaired drivers so far in 2024. Roughly 800 drivers were caught in 2023.

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The incidents coincide with Operation Red Nose’s recruitment drive, which seeks volunteers to help safely transport impaired drivers and their vehicles home.

Hosted by the Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association, the program also needs volunteers to field calls from those requesting the service.

Full details of the 2024 Operation Red Nose program, including specific service dates, will be released on Nov. 13.

Those interested in volunteering can visit arjaa.org for more information.