MADD Sarnia-Lambton has recognized two local police officers for their commitment to reducing impaired driving in 2019.
The local chapter presented Lambton OPP Cst. Rick Mathieson and Sarnia Police Cst. Ron Szabo with MADD Sarnia-Lambton plaques.
Chapter Director at Large Erin Pollard said the initiative highlights the role police play in the fight against impaired driving.
"Well about two years ago we set up a new honouring system to recognize local officers from Sarnia Police Service and Lambton OPP who have shown outstanding commitment to reduce impaired driving," said Pollard. "So we ask their superiors to nominate one of the officers from their department, and these two were chosen."
Pollard said each service deserves a ton of credit with helping reduce impaired driving.
"They do a lot of RIDE programs, you probably have noticed them out in the community, as well as they make a commitment to catch the local people who are impaired and driving."
Pollard said despite the hard work by Lambton OPP and Sarnia Police Service, impaired driving continues to be a huge issue locally.
"And our statistics keep saying they're rising, so either police are catching more of them or they're on the road more."
City police said 2019 marked a 15-year high for impaired driving charges in Sarnia.