Incoherent, drugged driver was swerving across Hwy. 17, police say

A 34-year-old woman from St. Catharines has been charged after police in northern Ontario received reports about a driver unable to stay in their lane on Highway 17. (File)

A 34-year-old woman from St. Catharines has been charged after police in northern Ontario received reports about a driver unable to stay in their lane on Highway 17.

The incident took place June 25 around 10:30 a.m. near the Highway 108 junction, Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release June 26.

“OPP received a traffic complaint regarding a westbound small blue car all over the road, crossing the centre line and nearly colliding with oncoming vehicles,” the release said.

Police found a dime bag

“Police located and stopped the car and spoke to the female driver who was talking incoherently and not making any sense. After roadside tests were conducted, the driver was arrested and a later search revealed a dime bag with suspected drug residue and drug paraphernalia.”

She was later assessed by an OPP drug recognition evaluator and subsequently was charged with drugged driving.

The vehicle was also towed and impounded. She is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on Sept. 3.

“The OPP would like to remind the motoring public to drive sober,” police said.

“Impairment by drugs is a crime under the Criminal Code and drivers are subject to the same penalties as those who are charged with driving while impaired by alcohol. A charge of impairment by drugs involves all drugs, be it prescription, over the counter and those that are illegal.”

Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, residents are urged to dial 911 or contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.