RIDGE Meadows RCMP say that a recent incident demonstrates the excellent work of their volunteers and the invaluable support they provide being an extra set of eyes and ears in the community for police.
On January 17 at approximately 8:30 p.m., Ridge Meadows RCMP received a report of a three-vehicle collision on Dewdney Trunk Road at 232 Street in Maple Ridge.
Officers learned that three of their volunteers were in a marked Crime Prevention Unit vehicle conducting citizen patrols when they were rear-ended as part of the collision.
After checking on all the parties involved and noting any injuries, the volunteers began exchanging information with the other drivers. As soon as they spoke with the suspect driver, they immediately suspected that they may be impaired by alcohol. The volunteers called 911 to report the collision and their observations about the driver.
When officers arrived on scene, they spoke to everyone involved, including the suspect driver, who confirmed their involvement in the collision. Based on their observations and interactions with the suspect driver, officers proceeded to make an Approved Screening Device (ASD) demand. As a result, the driver was arrested and issued a 90-day Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) and had their vehicle impounded for 30 days, along with incurring any financial penalties.
Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported and once cleared, the volunteers returned to the detachment.
“These volunteers not only did a tremendous job of taking the appropriate steps following a collision but also had the foresight to make detailed observations when reporting it to police,” says Ridge Meadows RCMP Inspector Martin Guay. “We appreciate their initiative which led to the removal of an impaired driver off our roads, and once again highlights the effectiveness of having trained volunteers out in our community reporting on public safety matters.”
Ridge Meadows RCMP said they would like to thank everyone who attended their recent Crime Prevention volunteer information session. It was a full house with lots of interest, and the RCMP will be providing all attendees with further updates.
While their information session is now finished, Ridge Meadows RCMP say they accept volunteer applications throughout the year. For more information check out their website or contact crimepreventionunit@mapleridge.ca or 604-467-7644.
