A man is facing charges after a dramatic attempt to evade a police checkstop in Newcastle, Ontario, culminating in a foot chase through a field captured by a police helicopter.
Foot Chase Captured from Above
The incident unfolded during a RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) program operation conducted by Durham Regional Police. Authorities reported that a driver, upon approaching the checkstop, allegedly decided to flee the scene. The individual abandoned his vehicle and took off on foot into a nearby field in an attempt to escape officers.
Police helicopter video documented the pursuit as the suspect ran across the open terrain. The aerial support proved crucial in tracking the man's movements and directing ground units to his location, leading to his eventual apprehension.
Charges Laid Following Apprehension
Following the chase, the 19-year-old man was successfully arrested by officers. He now faces multiple charges related to the incident. While the specific charges were not detailed in the initial report, fleeing from a lawful RIDE stop typically leads to serious offences under the Highway Traffic Act and potentially the Criminal Code.
The arrest highlights the coordinated efforts of Durham police, utilizing both ground and air resources to ensure public safety and enforce impaired driving laws. RIDE programs are a staple of holiday season enforcement across Canada, aimed at deterring and catching drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Enforcement During the Holiday Season
This arrest serves as a stark reminder of the heightened police presence on roads during the festive period. The RIDE program is significantly ramped up in December to combat impaired driving, which often sees an increase around celebrations.
Police services across Ontario, including Durham, have consistently warned drivers about the severe consequences of impaired driving and attempting to evade checkstops. Such actions not only carry heavy legal penalties but also pose a grave risk to public safety.
The incident in Newcastle concluded without reported injury to the public, officers, or the suspect. The man was processed and charged, with a court date expected to be set in the future.
