Dangerous driver charged with driving while impaired by drugs

On Saturday, Jun. 13, 2020 at approximately 1:00 p.m. Kingston Police say they received numerous calls from the public indicating that a male was driving his vehicle recklessly through downtown Kingston. Reports alleged that the male had been seen yelling from his opened vehicle windows while swerving and driving on both sides of the road.

Police responded and located the vehicle weaving in and out of traffic at high rates of speed while westbound on Princess Street. Police say they followed the vehicle as it made an improper turn onto Sir John A Macdonald Blvd, narrowly avoiding a collision with other vehicles.

According to police, the vehicle then travelled northbound on Sir John A Macdonald Blvd at speeds of nearly twice the maximum posted speed limit. 

The male then pulled in to the parking lot of a gas station at the corner of Sir John A Macdonald Blvd and John Counter Blvd, at which time police say they initiated a traffic stop, boxing the vehicle in, even as the male attempted to maneuver around the police cruisers.

Kingston Police say the male exited his vehicle and began walking away, ignoring police demands to stop. Police say the male appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance as he yelled repeatedly at the officers and bystanders.

At approximately 1:25 p.m. police arrested the male, who, according to Kingston Police, was actively resistant. Upon searching the male, police say they located a clear baggy containing a quantity of substance, which police believed to be fentanyl. A crack pipe and used needles were also allegedly located inside the vehicle.

Upon being placed in a prisoner transport vehicle, police say the male began to strike his head repeatedly against the interior of the vehicle, causing himself injury. Police say they prevented further injury from occurring by catching the male as he lunged headfirst from the vehicle as officers opened the door in an attempt to speak with him. 

The man was assessed at the scene by Frontenac Paramedics and then transported to Kingston General Hospital to have his injuries further assessed and treated. He was then transported to police headquarters where he was later released on conditions with a future court date. His driver’s licence is automatically suspended for 90 days and he could face a one year suspension if convicted. The vehicle was seized and impounded for seven days, with the accused being responsible for all fees and fines.

The 31-year-old local man has been charged with impaired operation of conveyance by drug as well as dangerous operation of conveyance.