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Northern Ontario

Suspended driver charged with impaired, drug possession

Published: 

Efforts to reduce impaired driving in the northeast seem to be working in some communities – provincial police say stats are still high.

A 42-year-old man from Sheshegwaning First Nation faces multiple charges after Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) arrested him for impaired driving during a traffic stop in Espanola.

RIDE Check Ontario Provincial Police conduct a traffic stop in this undated photo. (File photo/Eric Taschner/CTV News Northern Ontario)

On April 15 at about 3 p.m., officers on patrol received an automated licence plate recognition alert indicating a passing vehicle might have a suspended driver. Police then stopped the vehicle on Centre Street.

“Officers observed signs that the driver had consumed an intoxicating substance, and further investigation resulted in the driver being arrested for impaired operation,” OPP said in a release.

“Additionally, police seized a small amount of suspected cocaine.”

As a result of the incident, the accused was charged with impaired operation, refusal to comply with a demand, possession of a controlled substance, and driving while under suspension. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 2.

‘Make the call’

The OPP urged the public to report suspected impaired drivers.

Report impaired drivers Ontario Provincial Police are urging the public to report suspected impaired drivers. (File photo/Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

“If you suspect an impaired driver on our roads, waterways or trails, don’t hesitate to ‘make the call’ and dial 911,” OPP said.

“Your phone call could save someone’s life.”