Strathcona County Enforcement Services completes year-long pilot project to reduce impaired driving

Strathcona County Enforcement Services has concluded its one-year pilot project that granted Community Peace Officers the authority to conduct Mandatory Alcohol Screening (MAS) and issue Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS).

Since March 10, 2025, Community Peace Officers conducted a total of 9,486 MAS demands, with 4,878 completed at check stops and 4,608 during proactive traffic enforcement. As a result, 89 Immediate Roadside Sanctions were issued, averaging two impaired drivers encountered per week.

“Introducing Mandatory Alcohol Screening and Immediate Roadside Sanctions not only strengthened our service levels and reduced demands on the RCMP, but it also showcased the professionalism and integrity with which our Community Peace Officers embraced this increase in authority” says Tom Sutton, Director of RCMP and Enforcement Services.

Extensive training was provided to the 10 Community Peace Officers who participated in the pilot, and regular reports were submitted to the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services. A strong emphasis on integrity guided all aspects of this initiative, including training, reporting, and operational decision‑making.

“Collisions involving an impaired driver fell by 11 per cent in Strathcona County in 2025 compared to 2024,” says Sergeant Evan Brown, Enforcement Services Supervisor. “Every reduction we see represents fewer families affected by preventable tragedies. We will continue our efforts to help ensure the safety of all road users.”

A comprehensive evaluation report detailing the results of the pilot project will be submitted to the Ministry of Public Safety and Emergency Services for review. If approved, IRS authority will be expanded to all Strathcona County Community Peace Officers as part of their regular duties.

Strathcona County Community Peace Officers, who have already completed the required training, will continue to conduct Mandatory Alcohol Screening and issue Immediate Roadside Sanctions.

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Contact:
Strathcona County Communications
780-410-6595