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Sharing Checkstop locations could help drunk drivers, police say

The Winnipeg Police Festive Checkstop program runs through December. File / Global News

Winnipeg police are warning social media users to use caution when sharing Checkstop information after a recent flood of Facebook posts.

The roadside program aims to crack down on drunk drivers during the festive season.

RELATED: ‘It’s 100% preventable’: Winnipeg police say drugs, age also issue with impaired driving

Police set up at different locations every night for five weeks, and recently Winnipegers have taken to Facebook to reveal those locations.

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“(The) intention might be, make good decisions, don’t get behind the wheel. Or (the) intention might be to avoid this area,” said Constable Jason Michalyshen.

The locations are being shared on a variety of different Facebook groups. Michalyshen said it’s tough to judge why people are sharing the information, but there’s a risk, it’s being used for the wrong reasons.

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“To promote an impaired driver to avoid a Checkstop, that whole thought, or that whole idea obviously doesn’t sit well with Winnipeg Police.”

As the posts become more popular, Michalyshen said it’s important to be clear with your message when sharing a location, and be aware who can see it.

“Let’s make it a clear message then, and we’re all on side, we’re all on board with the same safety messaging.”

So far police have charged 19 people with impaired driving and other related charges, during the first two weeks of the program.

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