Police using social media to stop drivers from warning others about RIDE locations

TORONTO, Ont. - Police and municipalities are taking to social media to stop drivers from warning their fellow motorists about the location of RIDE spot-check programs.

A recent trend has seen some drivers use social media sites like Twitter and Facebook to warn others when and where RIDE programs are located.

While some of the drivers argue they are merely warning their sober counterparts how to avoid traffic tie ups, police warn this practice could cost lives.

Internet law experts argue the practice is likely not technically illegal. One legal expert said sharing the location of spot-checks with thousands of users on Twitter would probably not classify as obstruction of justice.

The Globe and Mail reports an obstruction of justice charge requires proof that a person helped someone evade police while committing a crime. Simply telling people, the majority of who are likely not drunk driving at the time, the location of a RIDE check would likely not fulfill this requirement.

Sgt. Tim Burrows of the Toronto Police Traffic Services Unit told the Globe and Mail police are fighting back by using Twitter and Facebook to ask those revealing the locations of RIDE checks whether they understand the consequences of their actions.

Police will point out that drunk driving can destroy families and end lives.

Police are also using strategies like changing checkpoint locations or publicizing one RIDE program then setting up on nearby streets.

Their strategy may be working, as initial numbers show Toronto police have arrested more drunk drivers with fewer officers this year.