The RCIPS Holiday Safety Campaign is ongoing this week, as the intensified road enforcement operations which began at the beginning of the month continue throughout the holiday season. These enforcement operations include an increase in traffic stops and high visibility patrols, led by the Traffic and Roads Policing Unit. The aim is to reduce traffic collisions and increase road safety, in part by cracking down on drunk driving and speeding, while also targeting offenses such as illegal tint and driving while disqualified.
Since the beginning of December, 28 arrests for DUI have been made, including several persons arrested with a blood alcohol content of over twice the legal limit. Officers from the Traffic and Roads Policing Unit have also arrested 5 persons on suspicion of driving while disqualified or driving without being qualified, issued 213 tickets for speeding, 164 tickets for using a mobile phone while driving, and 563 tickets for illegal tint.
As a reminder, illegal tint and mobile phone usage while driving each carry a fine of $150.
The RCIPS has also partnered once again with the National Drug Council in support of the 19th annual Designated Driver and New Year’s Eve Purple Ribbon Bus Campaigns. The RCIPS would like to remind that public that the Designated Driver Campaign is running throughout the holiday season, and is an initiative among local restaurants to offer designated drivers complimentary soft drinks throughout the evening. The Purple Ribbon Bus service provides free bus service on New Year’s Eve from 9:00PM to 4:00AM. The service runs between West Bay and Bodden Town every 15 minutes, with occasional service to East End and North Side. Additionally the RCIPS encourages drivers to take the Purple Ribbon Pledge to not drink and drive over the holiday season. Visit the National Drug Council (www.facebook.com/NDCCayman) for more information.
“These programs provide additional incentives for persons to choose not to drink and drive, especially during the busy period between Christmas and the New Year,” said Inspector Dwayne Jones of the Traffic and Roads Policing Unit. “So if you do intend to drink, it is essential that you make plans in advance to use one of these alternatives, whether that means taking advantage of the Designated Driver campaign, taking a taxi, or using the Purple Ribbon Bus on New Year’s Eve. Whatever the situation, there is no excuse for choosing to drink and drive.”
Another aspect of increased police activity during the holiday season has been strengthening crime and robbery prevention in the business community during this period of heightened commercial activity and late opening hours. Community Police officers have been conducting evening foot patrols this week in main commercial areas around the island to increase visibility and reassurance to business owners and shoppers.
A targeted increase in police presence, both in commercial areas and on the road, will continue until the New Year with the intention of ensuring a safe holiday season for members of the public as they travel the roads and do their shopping.
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