Northern Ont. police say suspect was driving over curbs, had open case of beer in the front seat

An alert citizen contacted police in Elliot Lake on Wednesday about a white car driving all over the road and driving over curbs. (Ontario Provincial Police photo)

A citizen alerted police in Elliot Lake to a heavily impaired driver who was all over the road in the community Wednesday afternoon.

“The vehicle was failing to stay in their lane and driving over curbs,” Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release Thursday.

Police stopped the white car around 1:15 p.m. on Westhill Road and spoke to the driver.

“The driver exhibited obvious signs of intoxication and a strong odour of alcoholic beverage emanated from their breath,” police said.

“Police also observed open beer cans and a partial case of beer on the passenger side of the vehicle.”

The driver resisted arrest and got into a short altercation with officers, but was soon taken into custody.

The 48-year-old from Sault Ste. Marie was charged with impaired driving, resisting arrest, breaching recognizance, driving with open liquor, failing to show their driver’s licence and proof of insurance.

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on Aug. 15.

“The OPP remind motorists that no amount of alcohol or drug is acceptable to consume and drive,” police said.

“Should you observe a suspected impaired driver, please dial 911 or contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.”