More than 50 drivers had their licenses suspended for driving under the influence during the Country Thunder Music Festival weekend, according to Saskatchewan RCMP.
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Mounties responded to 177 calls for service between July 9 and July 13 within the festival grounds and surrounding area. The weekend resulted in three Criminal Code charges and 20 provincial charges.
A proactive traffic safety initiative conducted alongside Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) led to 54 roadside suspensions for alcohol or drug impairment. Of those, 42 suspensions were for alcohol consumption and 12 were for drugs. Two individuals were also criminally charged with impaired driving.
RCMP Traffic Services checked more than 1,000 drivers at two check-stops near the festival entrances, ultimately issuing 460 Traffic Safety Act tickets and written warnings.
“This was a successful weekend thanks to the cooperation of festival-goers, organizers, volunteers, emergency services and all partners,” said Staff Sgt. Evan Gordon. “Large-scale events like Country Thunder require a collective commitment to safety, and largely speaking, we saw that throughout the weekend.”
Police also noted several other offences during the event, including:
- 28 Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act offences
- 23 calls for disturbing the peace
- 11 reports of mischief or property damage
- Five reports of theft under $5,000, involving items such as coolers and lawn chairs
- Two reports of assault, one of which led to a criminal charge
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