Lethbridge police arrest 3 people suspected of impaired driving

Lethbridge Police Headquarters is shown in Lethbridge, Alta., on March 10, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Rossiter

Hundreds of drivers were stopped during the third week of Lethbridge's Check Stop campaign, an initiative that police say led to dozens of tickets and three arrests.

The Lethbridge Police Service says with the help of Alberta Sheriffs, they checked 450 drivers during the third week of the campaign.

Officials say three drivers were found driving with blood alcohol concentrations over the legal limit.

In addition, a GDL driver was given a suspension and 38 tickets were issued.

All the drivers who are believed to have been impaired could have their licences suspended and their vehicles seized. Police say they would also be issued a $1,000 fine and ordered to complete a safety course.

"LPS would like to thank volunteers from MADD Lethbridge and Area for their continued support and attendance at local Check Stops," officials said in a news release.

"The Christmas Check Stop program continues throughout December and into the New Year in an effort to apprehend impaired drivers. If you are going to drink or use other intoxicating substances, plan ahead and make arrangements for a safe ride home."

Anyone who suspects a driver may be impaired is asked to call 911 immediately.

The public is also reminded refrain from sharing the location of any Check Stop locations as doing so allows impaired drivers to avoid them and put other drivers at risk.