Two Brantford men arrested, two firearms seized after search warrant executed
24-53118
Image: Image of evidence
Two Brantford men have been arrested and two firearms seized after a search warrant was executed at a Sheridan Street residence, December 18, 2024.
Officers with the Brantford police received a report of an assault involving a firearm that occurred on Sunday, December 15, 2024. The Brantford Police Service Drug and Firearm Enforcement Unit and BPS Major Crime launched an investigation.
On December 18, 2024, at approximately 3:34 p.m., with the assistance of the BPS Emergency Response Team and the BPS Ident Unit, a search warrant was executed at the Sheridan Street home.
As a result, two firearms were located and seized. Two men, ages 40 and 41 from Brantford, both who were found in violation of firearms prohibitions, were arrested and stand charged as follows:
The 40-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault
- Assault with a weapon
- Point firearm
- Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose
- Possession contrary to order
And the 41-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault
- Assault with a weapon
- Point firearm
- Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose
- Possession contrary to order x 2
Anyone with information on any other drug-related activities is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-0113 ext. 2286. Anonymous information can be provided by contacting Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
BPS Seek Information from Public to Identify Fraud Suspect
Image: suspect photo
Inc 24-52422
Officers with the Brantford Police Service are seeking information from the public to identify a male suspect in a fraud investigation.
On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the victim reported receiving a phone call from a man who falsely identified himself as an employee of a fraud department of a large financial banking institution. During the course of a 2.5-hour phone call, the male suspect convinced the victim to provide his PIN number and then sent a fraudulent courier service to the victim’s residence to collect his debit and credit cards.
The victim’s cards were then used to withdraw cash and purchase pre-paid Visa cards.
The Brantford Police Service are seeking assistance from the public to identify the suspect shown in the surveillance photograph provided.
These fraudsters can be very convincing and often target seniors. BPS would like to remind the public not to provide your PIN access codes or bank cards to anyone. When in doubt, call your bank directly or visit your bank in person to confirm legitimacy.
Anyone who has information that could help to identify the suspect is asked to contact Detective Constable Jeremy Morton of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2869. Information can be provided anonymously by contacting Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Information Regarding Various Other Scams
Brantford Police Service would like to take this opportunity to remind residents of several types of ongoing scams in an effort to reduce the ability. Some of the scams involve the following:
Bitcoin/Cryptocurrency Investment Scams
Reports have been received where the victim comes across internet postings or postings on social media regarding Bitcoin/Cryptocurrency investment opportunities. In all cases, these postings promise high returns for investing. The suspect directs the victim to purchase Bitcoin or other crypto-currency and then transfer it into a "trading account”. In reality, the victim transfers their Bitcoin into the suspect’s own crypto currency wallet where the funds disappear, and the victim no longer has access to these funds. In some cases, the suspect will have the victim allow them access to their computer or cell phone thru a screen sharing application. The suspect then gains access to the victim’s computer or cell phone where they are now able to transfer funds out of the victim’s accounts.
Information Phishing Scams
Reports have been received where the victim signs up for an online investment opportunity. The victim is directed to complete a sign-up form where they are asked for personal and identity information including bank account number, online banking passwords, date of birth, driver’s license number, social insurance number and phone number. The suspect then uses this information to access the victim’s bank account and transfer funds away from the victim.
Automated CRA Phone Calls
Brantford Police Service are aware of ongoing scam phone calls involving persons claiming to be from the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA). This scam involves a threat to individuals for payment of a fictitious debt to avoid arrest. The victim is often asked to repay their false debt by wire transfer, cyber-based currency or with the purchase of gift cards.
This scam often involves the use of technology which can cause a phone display to show a local telephone number, or a Brantford Police Service registered phone number. This technique is called "spoofing”. Caller ID spoofing allows fraudsters to disguise their calls and make them appear to represent a legitimate organization. Do not trust what is showing on your phone’s caller ID display. If you suspect a company or government agency is seeking personal information or money fraudulently, contact them directly to verify the validity of the request.
Residents are advised to be cautious of such scams and to be advised that no such calls are being made from any phone number associated with the Brantford Police Service.
Members of the Canadian Revenue Agency will not call you and ask for your banking information while threatening your arrest. The Canadian Revenue Agency does not accept e-transfers or wire payments for any fees or services. The CRA never uses text messages or instant messaging such as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp to communicate with taxpayers. Any text or instant message claiming to be from the CRA is a scam.
The Canadian Revenue Agency can be reached at 1-800-959-8281, or you can monitor "My Account” online at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/scrty/frdprvntn/menu-eng.html
Gift Card Purchase
Reports have been received where the victim will receive an email from an individual posing as an authority figure requesting the victim to purchase gift cards and provide the activation pins for the cards. The gift cards are requested under the pretense that the victim’s bank account or credit card may have been tampered with and must be verified. Under no circumstances will a financial institution or employer request to verify your accounts in this manner.
Online Buy and Sell Scams
The Brantford Police Service have received reports of online buy and sell scams. In these cases, the buyer responds to an ad posted online for the sale of an item or, occasionally, a pet. In cases involving animals, the seller will frequently request that payment be transferred electronically and will often request an e-transfer for a deposit to hold the item or for additional costs to cover items such as shipping or pet insurance. Often the items are never received by the buyer.
Brantford Police Service would like to remind the public to be vigilant while responding to email requests to send money or when shopping online on buy and sell sites for items.
The following safety tips should be considered when making purchases online:
- DO NOT send a deposit or full payment without seeing the item.
- Be sure to verify the legitimacy of the seller
- Make purchases from known breeders or suppliers.
- Trust your instincts. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.
- When in doubt, consult police or someone you trust before sending funds.
The Brantford Police Service wish to remind residents of the importance of fraud education and protecting oneself from becoming a victim. Please see below for tips on how to protect yourself from fraud. We also encourage spreading the word to those, such as the elderly, who may be particularly vulnerable to these fraudsters and may be targets of these high-pressure scams.
TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Be mindful of advertisements for investments that promise higher than normal returns. "If it’s too good to be true, it most always is too good to be true."
- Be aware that social media account takeovers are becoming more and more common. Suspects will take over a social media account and post advertisements for their scams. It will appear that your social media friends are making these posts and referring you to the investment.
- Be mindful when investing with or providing any personal information to a potential investment advisor. Do your research before investing. Ask for phone numbers and be sure you can contact these persons on these phone numbers. Confirm an address where the investor is based out of. Ask for references. In all likelihood, if you ask a scammer for these things, they will either not be able to provide them or will provide excuses as to why they cannot provide them.
- Never allow anyone to access your phone or computer thru a screen sharing application. A legitimate entity would never invade your privacy in this way.
- DO NOT provide personal information (e.g., Social Insurance Number, passport number, banking information or credit card numbers) over the phone unless you placed the call, and you know for certain who you are speaking to.
- Accredited businesses and government agencies will never ask for payment using gift cards or bitcoin.
- If you suspect it is a scam, it may be - just hang up. Conduct your own research to determine validity.
- Never wire money based on a request made over the phone or in an email, especially overseas.
- Resist the pressure to act quickly, if the offer is too good to be true, it probably is.
- Consider adding your phone number to the National Do Not Call List: www.Innte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng
- Consult with someone you trust before agreeing to provide large sums of money to anyone.
- DO NOT write down passwords and carry them with you.
If you have already sent funds and/or your personal information, contact the police and your financial institution immediately. If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud and reside in the City of Brantford, contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. You can also report online at: https://www.brantfordpolice.ca/accessible/online-reporting
If you have not experienced a financial loss but have received a fraudulent call, such as the CRA scam, please report the incident by calling the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraud.ca/index-eng.htm
Police Seek Public Assistance to Identify Suspect
Image: suspect photo
24-52568
The Brantford police are seeking assistance from the public in identifying the male suspect in the attached photograph.
On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the suspect is reported to have followed a young female victim.
Detectives with the Brantford police are seeking information from the public to identify the suspect. Anyone with information regarding this individual is asked to contact Detective Len Van Holst or Detective Meagan Hart of the BPS Criminal Investigation Section at 519-756-7050.
Anonymous information can be provided by contacting Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip
BPS Reminding Residents About Lock It or Lose It Campaign This Holiday Season
The Brantford Police Service are issuing a reminder to the public regarding the Lock It or Lose It campaign to help share information and tips with the public to protect yourself against theft from vehicles.
Be sure to remove any items, including holiday purchases, from your vehicle as soon as possible and keep any valuable items out of view of thieves. Most importantly, lock and secure your vehicle and park in well-lit areas. This will serve as a deterrent to would be thieves.
Unfortunately, despite efforts to prevent vehicle theft, it still occurs. In the case of theft, record the following information and store in a safe place. This information will be needed if you need to report a vehicle theft:
- Year, make, model and colour of your vehicle
- Licence plate and any vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Serial numbers for any special equipment
- Any dents or scratches that distinguish your vehicle from others
Why do thieves steal vehicles?
To prevent vehicle theft, it is important to understand why they are stolen in the first place.
- Thieves may steal a vehicle to sell it for parts
- They may use it for transportation and later abandon it, or use it to commit other crimes
- Vehicle cloning is another reason for theft, where a fraudulent identification number is used to sell the vehicle to unsuspecting buyers
How to protect your vehicle from theft?
- Park your vehicle inside a locked and secure garage.
- Block the access to the onboard diagnostic port to prevent thieves from reprograming the vehicle’s key fob. (A simple device can be purchased online).
- Use a steering wheel locking device to deter theft.
- Place the vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag/pouch to block cell signals when not in use. Inside your residence and in a purse or pocket.
- Consider equipping your vehicle with an aftermarket global positioning system (GPS) tracker. The tracker may assist police in locating the vehicle and/or suspects.
- Ensure all keys are accounted for and never left in the vehicle or unattended.
- Lock your vehicle at all times.
- Never leave your vehicle running and unattended.
- Consider purchasing a surveillance system and ensure the quality and function will capture any suspicious activity for a 24 hour period.
If you observe suspicious people in your neighborhood, looking into vehicles, we encourage you to report this to police immediately. Doing so will assist investigators to track patterns of criminal behavior and potentially identify suspects.
A crime in-progress can be reported by calling 9-1-1. Any non-emergency incidents can be reported on-line at Brantfordpolice.ca or by calling 519-756-7050.
Additionally, information can be provided anonymously to Brantford Crime Stoppers by calling 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Relay & Reprogramming Auto-Theft Awareness Reminder
December 10, 2024
The Brantford Police Service are issuing an auto theft awareness reminder to the public regarding a vehicle theft trend previously reported in the City of Brantford. This trend, while only one method utilized by criminals to steal vehicles, is known as "Relay and Reprogramming” technology. In an effort to increase awareness to help make vehicles more secure and less attractive to thieves, we are issuing a reminder.
Reports indicate that the vehicles targeted by relay and reprogramming technology are newer model, high-end vehicles with keyless entry and push start technology. The thefts typically occur in the overnight hours.
While not all motor vehicle thefts occur using this technology, by increasing awareness, it is the goal of BPS to reduce vehicle thefts. In 2023, 341 vehicles were reported as stolen to the Brantford Police Service. 352 vehicles have been reported stolen to date in 2024.
How does relay vehicle theft work?
The suspect will approach a residence and use technology to find a key fob signal from inside a residence. The technology allows the suspects to remain outside the residence to amplify and transfer the key fob signal in order to unlock, start and steal the vehicle. The theft of the vehicle will typically be undetected until the morning when the owner discovers their vehicle has been stolen and they are still in possession of their key fob.
How does reprogramming vehicle theft work?
The suspects will approach the vehicle and force entry inside. Once inside the vehicle an electronic device is used to access the vehicles diagnostics. The suspects then reprogram a blank key fob so the vehicle can be started and steal the vehicle.
How to protect your vehicle from theft?
- Park your vehicle inside a locked and secure garage.
- Block the access to the onboard diagnostic port to prevent thieves from reprograming the vehicle’s key fob. (A simple device can be purchased online).
- Use a steering wheel locking device to deter theft.
- Place the vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag/pouch to block cell signals when not in use. Inside your residence and in a purse or pocket.
- Consider equipping your vehicle with an aftermarket global positioning system (GPS) tracker. The tracker may assist police in locating the vehicle and/or suspects.
- Ensure all keys are accounted for and never left in the vehicle or unattended.
- Lock your vehicle at all times.
- Never leave your vehicle running and unattended.
- Consider purchasing a surveillance system and ensure the quality and function will capture any suspicious activity for a 24-hour period.
If you observe suspicious people in your neighborhood, looking into vehicles, we encourage you to report this to police immediately. Doing so will assist investigators to track patterns of criminal behavior and potentially identify suspects.
A crime in-progress can be reported by calling 9-1-1. Any non-emergency incidents can be reported on-line at Brantfordpolice.ca or by calling 519-756-7050.
Additionally, information can be provided anonymously to Brantford Crime Stoppers by calling 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
BPS officers arrest two young offenders after stabbing incident
Incident 24- 52107
UPDATE: BPS officers arrest two young offenders after stabbing incident
As an update to the media release issued December 8, 2024, regarding the arrest of two young offenders after a stabbing incident, additional information is being provided in relation to the incident.
Upon arrival of police to the scene of the incident, one of the first officers to attend recognized the severity and extent of the injuries sustained by the victim and promptly applied life-saving measures.
The victim was then transported to hospital for treatment of serious and perceived, life-threatening injuries.
The victim is now in stable condition.
Front-line officers with the Brantford Police Service have received enhanced first aid training which is designed to equip them with the skills to respond effectively to medical emergencies, potentially saving lives and providing critical care until professional medical help arrives.
ORIGINAL RELEASE: December 8, 2024
At approximately 11:55 p.m., Saturday, December 7, 2024, officers were dispatched to attend a report of an altercation at a Market Street South address. Officers attended and located a male victim suffering from multiple stab wounds.
The victim was transported to hospital for treatment of serious and perceived, life-threatening injuries.
A knife was seized by police at the scene.
Two young offenders; a 16-year-old male and a 16-year-old female, both from Brantford, were arrested at the scene and each charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault with a weapon
- Aggravated assault
- Mischief under $5,000
- Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose
The accused were held for a bail hearing.
Anyone with any knowledge or media of the incident are asked to please contact Detective Jet Khagura of the Brantford Police Service - Major Crimes Unit at 519-756-7050 ext. 2919. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
BPS arrest 39-year-old female, officer assaulted
24-51489
UPDATE: BPS arrest
39-year-old female, officer assaulted
As an update to the media release issued December 4, 2024, regarding the arrest of a 39-year-old female who assaulted a Brantford police officer, additional information is being provided in relation to the assault and charges laid.
The call from a concerned citizen was received at approximately 2:10 p.m. December 3, 2024.
During the arrest, the suspect was observed ingesting a foreign substance believed to be fentanyl. The officer intervened, potentially saving the suspect’s life by attempting to remove the suspected drugs from the suspect’s mouth. The officer was then bitten by the suspect and exposed to suspected fentanyl. At this time, the officer began to exhibit signs of fentanyl exposure and was transported to hospital for treatment. The officer has recovered from the physical injuries sustained as a result of the incident.
The related charges have been amended as follows:
As an update to the media release issued December 4, 2024, regarding the arrest of a 39-year-old female who assaulted a Brantford police officer, additional information is being provided in relation to the assault and charges laid.
The call from a concerned citizen was received at approximately 2:10 p.m. December 3, 2024.
During the arrest, the suspect was observed ingesting a foreign substance believed to be fentanyl. The officer intervened, potentially saving the suspect’s life by attempting to remove the suspected drugs from the suspect’s mouth. The officer was then bitten by the suspect and exposed to suspected fentanyl. At this time, the officer began to exhibit signs of fentanyl exposure and was transported to hospital for treatment. The officer has recovered from the physical injuries sustained as a result of the incident.
The related charges have been amended as follows:
- Assault Peace Officer Causing Bodily Harm
- Possession of Controlled Substance
- Breach of Probation
- Carry Concealed Firearm
- Arrest Warrant X 2
ORIGINAL RELEASE: December 4, 2024
Members of the Brantford Police Service arrested a 39-year-old woman on December 3, 2024, after a concerned citizen called to report the woman was in possession of a handgun.
At approximately 3:10 p.m., a concerned citizen called 911 to report a single motor vehicle collision in the area of Kiwanis Way and Glenwood Drive. It was reported that a woman in possession of a handgun fled the scene on foot towards a retail plaza on Colborne Street.
Officers searched the area, locating and arresting the suspect within a fast-food restaurant at Stanley Street and Darling Street.
During the search, out of an abundance of caution, two area schools were temporarily placed in lockdown.
Information received indicated the accused was wanted on outstanding warrants and was also in violation of a probation order. Search incident to arrest located a bb gun in the suspect’s possession which was seized.
During the arrest, the suspect assaulted and bit an officer.
The female suspect was transported to hospital for medical treatment due to suspected drug use. The officer was transported to hospital for treatment of injuries.
As a result of the investigation, a 39-year-old woman from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault Peace Officer Cause Bodily Harm
- Possession of Firearm or Weapon
- Probation Order: Non-Compliance
The accused was held for bail.
Anyone that would like to report criminal activity within the community is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. Anonymous information can be provided by contacting Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
MISSING PERSON: Leslie, 45
Image: Photo of missing person
Incident 24- 50522
The Brantford Police Service are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing 45-year-old, Leslie.
Leslie is described as 5’4”, weighing approximately 155 lbs., with a medium build, dark complexion, and brown eyes.
Leslie was last seen wearing a black coat with fur trim, a white sweater, grey jogging pants, and sheepskin style boots.
Leslie was last seen in the area of Market Street and Nelson Street, Brantford, mid-day of November 26, 2024.
The Brantford Police Service is concerned for Leslie’s well-being and are seeking assistance from anyone who may have information which may assist in locating the missing person.
Anyone with knowledge of Leslie’s whereabouts is asked to please contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. Individuals who wish to provide information anonymously are asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
BPS Host Shop With A Cop
Image: group photo students with officers
The Brantford Police Service organized the first Shop with a Cop event which was held today at the Lynden Park Mall, 84 Lynden Road, Brantford. The inaugural event paired 10 local children, between the ages of 9 and 13 with a Brantford police officer who became their personal shopper for the day.
The children received a $200 visa card to purchase gifts for their family. The gift cards were graciously donated by private sponsors and local businesses.
BPS Interim Chief Jason Saunders welcomed participants and officers who volunteered to participate in the event as they sat down for a complimentary breakfast provided by the Brantford Police Association.
Organizer Constable Joanne Sevier thanked all members for volunteering in this year’s Shop with a Cop before sending them off with their partners to start their shopping adventure.
Volunteers worked behind the scenes to wrap gifts for the children and kept the event running smoothly.
Following the morning of shopping, the children received a stocking full of treats for themselves, photos with Santa, and enjoyed a lunch with the officers, which was provided by Kelsey’s Brantford.
The children participating in Shop with a Cop were selected from recommendations made by their school, based on a wide variety of factors including need, recognition of specific academic or sports achievement, or because of volunteer efforts that are making a difference in the community. The children who were selected are recognized for being positive, kind role models within their schools.
The Brantford Police Service would like to thank the many sponsors and volunteers who generously contributed to the success of the event including:
Kelsey’s Brantford
Waterous Holden Amey Hitcheon LLP
Emerick Mechanical
Ark Electrical
Kim Aasla Travel Agent
Brimich Logistics
Home Hardware
Wendy’s
Vogue Optical
BPS Launch Holiday R.I.D.E. Campaign
In an effort to keep our roads safe from impaired drivers, the Brantford Police Service is launching the 2024 Holiday R.I.D.E campaign. The campaign goal is to take alcohol and drug-impaired drivers off the roads and help raise awareness surrounding the dangers and consequences of impaired driving.
The BPS Holiday R.I.D.E program will be running during December 2024.
Impaired driving means operating a vehicle (including cars, trucks, snowmobiles, and off-road vehicles) while your ability to do so has been compromised to any degree by consuming alcohol, drugs or a combination of the two. Impaired driving is a very serious offence that endangers the lives and safety of everyone on our roads.
Alcohol — even one drink — can reduce your ability to react to things that happen suddenly. The effects of alcohol also include blurred or double vision, impaired attention and slowed reflexes. Impaired driving is one of the leading causes of death on Ontario’s roads.
Brantford Police Service would also like to remind drivers that both prescription and non-prescription drugs are an impairment while driving.
Penalties for Impaired Driving
If police determine that you are driving while impaired by alcohol or any drug, including cannabis, illegal drugs, prescription, and over-the-counter medications, you will face severe penalties as well as potential criminal charges if convicted in court.
The penalties vary depending on the driver’s age, licence type, the amount of alcohol or drugs in your system, and the number of times you have been convicted.
Impaired drivers will face the following penalties (depending on circumstances):
- Licence Suspension (3 days to lifetime)
- Vehicle Impoundment (7 days)
- Financial Penalties Payable ($250 to $550)
- Licence Reinstatement Fee ($281)
- An ignition interlock device may be required (6 months to 10 years)
- Attendance of mandatory education or treatment program(s)
- A mandatory medical evaluation to determine whether you meet the requirements for driving in Ontario
If convicted criminally of impaired driving in court, drivers can also face additional fines and jail time.
Throughout Canada, the maximum legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for fully licensed drivers is to be under 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood, or 0.08. Driving with a BAC of 0.08 or over is a criminal offence and the penalties are severe.
In Ontario, you will also face serious consequences if your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.08. This is commonly referred to as the "warn range.”
Drivers aged 21 or under, and novice drivers of any age (with G1, G2, M1, or M2 licenses) must not have any presence of alcohol in their blood when behind the wheel. This is commonly referred to as the "zero BAC” or "zero tolerance” rule.
Young and novice drivers are also prohibited from having any presence of cannabis in their system as well as other drugs that can be detected using approved drug screening equipment. Ontario has a zero-tolerance approach to both alcohol and drugs for all young and novice drivers.
Don’t Do It - Avoid Driving Impaired
There are simple steps you can take to stay safe and avoid driving while you are impaired by drugs or alcohol:
- Have a plan to get home safely. Have a designated driver, use public transit, call a friend or family member for a ride, call a taxi or ride share, or stay overnight.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist about side effects related to driving when using prescription medication.
- Read the information on the package of any prescription drugs or over-the-counter medicine, including allergy and cold remedies.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how a prescription drug could affect you.
Remember that combining drugs and alcohol together can impair your ability to drive more than using either one alone.
Have a plan to get home safely. Have a designated driver, use public transit, call a friend or family member for a ride, call a taxi or ride share, or stay overnight.
There is never an excuse for impaired driving.