Driver charged with drug possession at OPP traffic stop
At 1 pm on January 19, 2016, a member of the Manitoulin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) conducted a traffic stop on Highway 540 at Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands (NEMI).
As a result of the investigation, a 29-year-old male of NEMI has been charged with possession of cannabis marijuana, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and with several Highway Traffic Act of Ontario charges.
The accused is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Gore Bay, Ontario on March 21, 2016.
Winter has arrived – be prepared
Winter has arrived on Manitoulin Island and the Manitoulin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is again reminding the motoring public to practice safe driving habits. When you are on the road, there are a few simple things you can do to reduce the risk of a collision:
Give yourself a little extra time to reach your destination.
Drive according to the road and weather conditions—reduce your speed and increase your following distance to the vehicle in front to ensure you can stop safely. Speed too fast for conditions is the most common cause of winter collisions.
Accelerate slowly and brake sooner to avoid spin outs, especially at intersections.
Ensure that you have brushed the snow and ice off your vehicle to allow a clear view of the roadway—this includes your headlights and tail lights. A buildup of snow on your vehicle can reduce your visibility, cause a traffic hazard to other motorists, and could lead to Highway Traffic Act (HTA) charges.
Check your windshield wiper fluid levels and pack an extra container in your vehicle to top up as required.
Check the weather forecast. It may be better to stay home.
Be a sober driver.
The OPP encourages all motorists to practice safe and courteous driving habits to reduce the risk of preventable winter collisions. If travel is necessary during potentially dangerous winter weather, inform someone of the travel route, the destination and the expected arrival time.
Motorists should remember to keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Keeping a winter vehicle kit is also a good practice and should include these items: flashlights with extra batteries; first aid kit with pocket knife; necessary medication; blankets; matches and candles for light and heat; extra set of mitts, socks and wool cap; a bag of sand for generating traction under the wheels; a shovel; booster cables; a brightly coloured cloth to use as a distress flag; and bottled water.
Visit the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website at ontario.ca/511, Twitter @511Ontario or call 511 for traveller’s information such as winter road conditions, construction reports, road closures, traffic reports, traffic cameras and interactive mapping.
Please do not call 9-1-1 or the OPP for road reports.
