ESTEVAN — A selective traffic enforcement program (STEP) initiative was held in Estevan on June 25.
Conducting the blitz were the Estevan Police Service; SGI; and police officers representing the Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina and Corman Park Police Services; the Saskatchewan Highway Patrol; Moose Jaw Combined Traffic Services; and RCMP Combined Traffic Services from Estevan, Regina and Central Butte.
Multiple locations throughout the city were monitored for traffic offences and vehicle equipment issues. As a result of these efforts, two Criminal Code charges were laid against a 38-year-old Fleming woman, one for obstruction and the other for driving while on a Canada-wide prohibition.
Officers also issued three tickets for speeding, five for using handheld electronic communications equipment while driving; two for failing to obey a stop sign or traffic light; five for failing to wear a seatbelt; and 11 for Vehicle Equipment Regulations Act offences. Seventeen Traffic Safety Act offences were listed as other, and 16 vehicle inspection tickets were issued.
Thirty-nine mandatory alcohol screening tests were conducted, with 38 passing. The other person received a provincial roadside suspension for alcohol consumption. Three roadside oral swab tests were conducted for drugs and all three passed.
The EPS issued 97 Vehicle Equipment Regulations Act warnings.
Eight commercial vehicle inspections were carried out. Two passed, one was identified as requiring attention and five were taken out of service. Three vehicles were seized.
According to the EPS, the STEP program is an annual collaboration between SGI and police organizations in locations throughout the province to improve road safety and reduce injuries and fatalities on Saskatchewan roads.
In other recent police news, an investigation into a truck reported stolen during the early morning hours of June 24 resulted in the arrest of 22-year old Dusty Bonnor, who is facing several charges, including theft of a vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, break and enter, and failing to comply with conditions of a probation order. He appeared in Carlyle Provincial Court on June 25. More to come on this story.
EPS members assisted EMS and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital on two occasions during nightshift in response to an unruly patient.
A report of someone trying to enter a residence in the south end of Estevan resulted in a large dog being located trying to enter the trailer. The dog’s owner was identified, however members were unable to make contact. The animal was taken to the Estevan Humane Society for its safety and to be picked up at the owner's convenience.
A seven-year old youth was reported to be missing from her bedroom shortly after midnight. While members were en route, the child was found to be safe and well in the garage of the residence. Members attended and spoke with the family and no further police involvement was required.
A well-being check was conducted on a 39-year old female after family members received concerning text messages. The woman was located and determined to be safe and well.
