Police Chiefs: Increased DUI Patrols for Memorial Day Weekend

Remembering Officer Ryan Bourque on 9th anniversary of his death

The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association announced today that law enforcement agencies across the state will have increased patrols throughout Memorial Day weekend. Patrols are in honor of the 9th anniversary of Officer Ryan Bourque’s death caused by an impaired driver.

“Our message is clear: if you plan to drink or use cannabis, don’t drive,” said Chief James Campbell of the Jamestown Police Department. “Plan ahead by designating a sober driver or using a rideshare. With this weekend’s increased enforcement efforts, our goal is to stop impaired drivers before they cause harm and to prevent tragedies like the one that took Ryan’s life. We are stepping up enforcement not only to hold offenders accountable, but to honor Officer Bourque’s memory and help ensure that no other family experiences such a profound loss.”

On May 23, 2016, Jamestown Police Officer Ryan Bourque tragically lost his life when he was struck by a wrong-way driver who was intoxicated and under the influence of drugs while traveling on Route 95 as Officer Bourque was heading home from work. His death remains a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving.

In honor of his memory and to prevent future tragedies, extra patrols will be deployed statewide to identify and arrest individuals suspected of driving under the influence. As part of these DUI enforcement efforts, the BAT Mobile will be deployed at 1 East Shore Road in Jamestown on Friday, May 23, from 8 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. The Jamestown, North Kingstown, and Newport Police Departments will be working together to identify and arrest impaired drivers.

RIPCA will also be sharing safety reminders on its social media platforms throughout the weekend to encourage responsible driving and help keep Rhode Island’s roads safe for all.

Facebook: @RICHIEFSOFPOLICE

Instagram: @ripolicechiefs

X: @ripolicechiefs