Journal staff
A 29-year-old Sarnia driver faces a number of charges — including driving with open liquor and driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs — after being stopped driving on a closed road north of London, police say.
Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) say the incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, when an officer spotted a vehicle traveling on a closed road in the township of Lucan Biddulph. Richmond Street had previously been closed for a fire investigation between Saintsbury Line and Roman Line. A traffic stop was initiated, and as a result, the driver has been charged under the Criminal Code, Highway Traffic Act and the Liquor Licence Control Act with:
· Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs
· Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
· Drive on closed highway
· Driving motor vehicle with open container of liquor
The accused has been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice to speak to the charges on August 2.
The Middlesex OPP reminds the public that if you see anything suspicious or suspect an impaired driver you should contact the Ontario Provincial Police or your nearest police authority immediately.
If you have any information that could assist with the investigation, the OPP can be reached anywhere in the Province of Ontario at 1-888-310-1122.
If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.