Drumheller RCMP arrest fleeing impaired driver

In the early morning hours of December 3rd, 2023, Drumheller RCMP officers were conducting an “Alberta Checkstop” at the intersection of Bridge Street and Grove Place in Drumheller for the purpose of checking driver sobriety. 

At approximately 12:05 am, a white 2018 Ford F250 pickup truck entered the checkstop area but was soon observed driving over the curb and leaving the roadway in an apparent effort to avoid contact with the police.  RCMP officers gave commands to the driver to stop; however, the vehicle fled.  Officers observed the vehicle park at a nearby hotel, located in the 100 block of Grove Place, and observed the suspect flee into a hotel room.  Despite many attempts to have the suspect open the door, the suspect failed to do so.

At 12:50 am, officers obtained a “Warrant to Enter” and forcibly entered the hotel suite arresting the suspect.  The suspect provided breath samples and was found to have a blood alcohol content over the legal limit.

Robert Anderson, 58 years old of Rimbey, Alberta, was charged with:

• Obstruction contrary to Sec. 129(a) of the Criminal Code.

Anderson was also subject to Provincial Sanctions for Impaired Operation of a Motor Vehicle which included immediate licence suspension and seizure of his vehicle for 30 days.

Anderson was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller on January 26th, 2023 to answer to the charge.

Staff Sergeant Robert Harms of Drumheller Detachment stated “Impaired Drivers pose a significant risk to the public and users of our roadways.  Operations to locate and intercept impaired drivers is a priority and will continue.  This is another example of the effectiveness of such operations and further demonstrates the dedication of our officers.”