Kelowna RCMP learn skills to better detect drug impairment

Kelowna RCMP are getting new training to help detect drug impaired drivers.

Central Okanagan Traffic Services officers are finding more people getting behind the wheel of a vehicle when they are impaired by both prescription and illegal drugs, but don’t always have the evidence to forward a criminal charge.

While most drivers suspected of drug impaired driving are given roadside suspensions, a Kelowna man has become one of the first people locally charged with drug impaired driving causing bodily harm.

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Police say a blood sample after a pedestrian collision indicated crack cocaine in William Willoughby’s blood, not alcohol.

RCMP had sent out a drug recognition expert to the scene of the crash last June to help acquire a warrant for a blood sample.

Willoughby is set to return to Provincial Court March 1, 2012.

New training is hoped to result in officers who are able to testify on their observations in court because of expertise.