Northern Ont. man asleep in truck faces impaired, trafficking charges

A Nishnawbe Aski Police Service vehicle is shown in this undated image. (File photo/Nishnawbe Aski Police Service/Facebook)

An investigation that began with a report of a man “asleep” in a vehicle last week has resulted in multiple charges, including drug trafficking and impaired driving, according to the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service.

The incident occurred on Nov. 14, when the police service received a call about a male sleeping in a white pickup truck parked at the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation community band office.

From suspected impairment to drug seizure

When officers arrived on scene, they approached the man and observed signs of drug impairment.

“Further investigation led officers to take the male into custody on charges of impaired operation of a motor vehicle,” said Nishnawbe Aski police in a news release.

That investigation led police to locate and seize a quantity of suspected fentanyl, cash, a knife and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.

The accused was then transported to the Iroquois Falls OPP detachment for further evaluation by a drug recognition expert, which confirmed he was impaired.

Police also confirmed the man was prohibited from driving a motor vehicle.

Multiple charges laid

As a result, the 28-year-old man was charged with drug trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose along with the charges for impaired driving and operating a motor vehicle while prohibited.

“The vehicle has been secured by police and will be impounded for 45 days,” said police.

Additionally, under provincial law, the motorist received a 90-day administrative driver’s licence suspension.

“The accused has since been released from custody with conditions and a future court appearance date,” said police.