PEC OPP report surge of impaired driving and boating
As June rolled into July, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continued to locate and charge impaired drivers, both on the roads and waterways.
On Tuesday, Jun. 27, 2023, officers from the Prince Edward County (PEC) Detachment responded to a report of a motor vehicle collision on County Road 3 shortly after 8:30 p.m. According to a release from the OPP, officers located the vehicle but no one was around. Police said the driver was located nearby and arrested.
David Lewis, age 65, 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
Lewis was released on an undertaking and is to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in August 2023. They also had their drivers licence suspended for 90 days and their vehicle impounded for a period of seven days.
A few days later, on Friday, Jun. 30, 2023, PEC OPP were conducting a RIDE program near County Roads 10 and 18 shortly before midnight. According to the OPP, a vehicle turned around in advance of the program. Officers located and stopped the vehicle a short distance away. The investigation led to the administration of an approved screening device.
Sean Beckingham, age 50, from Toronto was arrested and charged with:
- 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
Beckingham was released from custody and is to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on August 2, 2023. The driver also had their vehicle impounded for a period of seven days and their licence suspended for 90 days.
Over the past Canada Day long weekend, marine units from the Prince Edward County and Quinte West Detachments of the OPP joined forces with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Provincial Park Wardens to conduct joint marine patrols.
Patrols took place over the County waterways, to ensure everyone had a safe weekend, according to the release. Police reported that a number of charges were laid including folks not having enough lifejackets, missing safety equipment and alcohol on the water.
“Impaired driving has real dangers. Plan a safe ride home and do not drive impaired,” OPP said, noting that boaters should also check the Safe Boating Guide for a list of required equipment and licencing for spending time on the water.
“To report impaired drivers, call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppersquinte.ca where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000,” police shared.