Northern man charged with impaired driving after Espanola traffic stop

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

A 55-year-old man from Little Current is facing impaired driving charges after Ontario Provincial Police observed a vehicle swerving within its lane in Espanola.

On April 28, police said they were on general patrol in the area in the early morning when they noticed the erratic driving shortly before 5 a.m. Officers then conducted a traffic stop on Centre Street.

As a result of the incident and the resulting investigation, the motorist has been charged with operation while impaired by drugs.

The accused is scheduled to appear in court on June 2.

‘Make the call’

The OPP urged the public to report suspected impaired drivers.

“No amount of alcohol or drugs in your system is safe while driving,” said OPP Const. Berkley Parisien in a news release.

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

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