OPP charge two impaired drivers near Picton on same day

Last week, members of the Prince Edward County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) charged two drivers with impaired driving on the same day.

The OPP received the first complaint shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Jun. 15, 2023, regarding a vehicle travelling on County Road 17. According to a release from the OPP, the vehicle was located near Picton and the subsequent investigation led to the administration of an approved screening device. The driver was arrested and transported to the detachment for further testing.

Jerry Howard, age 55 from Quinte West, was charged with the following offences:

• Operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol and drugs
• Operating a motor vehicle while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit

Howard was released and is to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice later this month. They also had their vehicle impounded for seven days.

Later that day, shortly after 11 p.m., officers were on patrol when a vehicle was stopped on Talbot Street in Picton. According to the release, the subsequent investigation led to the administration of an approved screening device and the driver was arrested and transported to the detachment for further testing.

Ashley Kowacz, age 37 from Prince Edward County, was charged with the following offences:

• Operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol and drugs
• Operating a motor vehicle while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit

Kowacz was released and is to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in July 2023. They also had their vehicle impounded for seven days.

The OPP would like to thank those who continue to remain vigilant for impaired drivers.

“Everyone is encouraged to report impaired drivers by calling 911,” the OPP said. “Impaired driving impacts us all, do your part and plan a safe ride home.”