Police and customs officers nab impaired driver at RR crossing

News Release
O.P.P.

(Fort Frances, Ontario) Officers from the Rainy River District OPP conducted RIDE programs over the course of the Thanksgiving Long Weekend. Each day, officers could be found conducting stationary RIDE programs looking for drivers who have been drinking and make the decision to get behind the wheel of their vehicles.
Over a four day span, local officers specifically dedicated 24 hours of the Thanksgiving Long Weekend conducting RIDE programs with over 730 vehicles being checked. As a result of the vehicle checks, one driver was found to be driving while prohibited, another driver was issued a 12 hour driver’s licence suspension and 10 drivers and 3 passengers were charged with failing to wear their seatbelts.
On October 12, 2008 a man attempted to drive into Canada around noon at the Rainy River International Border crossing. Canada Border Services officers initiated an investigation concerning the man’s driving ability being impaired by alcohol. The OPP was called to assist and subsequently the man was transported to Rainy River OPP Detachment for breathalyzer tests. Darrell Wayne BODEKER of Sauk Centre, Minnesota has been charged with Over 80 mgs and was released on a $300 recognizance and given a 90 days Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension. Police escorted Mr BODEKER back to the Rainy River International Bridge where he subsequently walked back to the United States. His court appearance will be December 4th, 2008 in Rainy River.
Police urge motorists to not drink and drive. Help your local officers keep your highways safe, if you suspect someone is driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. We all need to take an active role in reducing impaired driving.