Police forces across Ontario are reminding dangerous drivers that they know no boundaries, as they highlight their partnership on Project ERASE.
Officers from York Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Peel Regional Police and Durham Regional Police, along with the Ministry of Transportation, came together in Stouffville May 25 to officially launch Project ERASE (Eradicate Racing Activity on Streets Everywhere) which tackles street racing and stunt driving on Ontario roads.
“Let me be clear. If you choose to participate in danger and illegal driving you will be investigated, you will be identified, your vehicle will be seized and you’ll be charged criminally,” said Insp. Ian Hill with York Regional Police.
He said in 2021, there were 74 arrests made, 68 criminal code charges, 510 Highway Traffic Act charges, 65 vehicles impounded, and 57 license suspensions.
So far in 2022, there have already been eight arrests, 44 criminal, 10 HTA charges, five vehicles impounded, and four license suspensions.
Throughout Project ERASE, police will be using YRP's helicopter Air 2 along with unmarked police vehicles and specially trained officers to respond to stunt driving. The public are asked to do your part by driving safely and reporting dangerous driving when you see it.
That should always be a 9-1-1, said Insp. Danos with Peel Regional Police. He said that speed is often a factor in fatal collisions and dangerous driving is considered a criminal activity.
Police said stunt driving and street racing incidents often involve organized events, coordinated through social media where drivers will take over stretches of roads, intersections, or parking lots. Danos said these are not the same as law-abiding car enthusiasts.
“Racing and stunt driving is not to be mistaken for car enthusiasts who congregate to enjoy historical and recreational vehicles. Racing and stunt driving place the community at risk and place the individuals who partake in these activities at risk as well,” he said.
If you see dangerous driving you are asked to call 9-1-1. Police said to try and get the license plate and description of the driver if you are able when making a report.
