NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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On April 22 shortly after 1 p.m., members from the East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to numerous traffic complaints of a possible impaired driver in Blind River.
The initial report stated the suspect vehicle drove through a stop sign on Leacock Street and later was seen parked at a local mini-mall on Causley Street. At 13:14 p.m., a local sandwich shop employee reported an intoxicated person who was yelling and swearing at employees of the business and left in the suspect vehicle.
An additional call came in from the local liquor store, where employees refused to serve an intoxicated person. Employees of the liquor store saw the driver left in the suspect vehicle.
A short time later, police located the suspect vehicle parked at a residence off Youngfox Road. Police attended and were denied entry into the home. The family did advise the driver did not need medical attention.
Police left the residence, continued their investigation, and retrieved video footage from the two local businesses.
On Sunday, April 23, the driver Katelyn Woods, 21 from Blind River, was arrested and charged with:
- Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs
- Causing a disturbance
- Driving while under suspension
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on July 6.
The OPP would like to thank the public who see and report possible impaired drivers on our roadways, waterways, or trails. Call 9-1-1 if you suspect an impaired driver.
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