CLARKWATCH: Follow news and updates regarding sanctions on Mayor Clark.

Holiday check stops help Medicine Hat Police keep roads safe.

Dec 16, 2017 | 9:58 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB. – Medicine Hat Police Service teamed up with M.A.D.D. and Santa Claus, to check 1398 vehicles through an Enhanced Alberta Check Stop Program on the night of December 15th and into the early morning of December 16th.

During the this time Santa Claus was able to hand out candy canes to all the responsible drivers passing through the check stop. There were also 18 motorists who were put on a roadside screening device and passed.

One motorist had a blood alcohol level over 0.08, and was charged with impaired drinking and driving. The persons license was suspended and the vehicle is seized for three days.

One Standardized Field Sobriety Test was conducted on a motorist suspected of operating a vehicle while under the influence of cannabis. The driver was given a 24-hour license suspension and his vehicle was seized for 24-hours.

One drug seizure was made.

13 liquor violations were given to motorists through warnings or tickets.

29 other traffic violations also occurred and resulted in tickets or warnings for various offences.

Medicine Hat Police said they want remind motorists check stops will be continuing throughout the holiday season. They want to encourage drivers to make smart choices to get themselves home safely and not getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.