The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has arrested an impaired driver following a collision in Trent Hills.
On December 21, 2024, at approximately 8:40 p.m., police, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Municipality of Trent Hills Fire Department responded to a single motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Devils Valley Road and County Road 8 in the Municipality of Trent Hills.
Officers arrived and located a red pick-up truck in the ditch with the driver being treated for minor injuries by medical personnel before being transported to a local hospital as a precaution. There were no other persons or vehicles involved.
Upon speaking with the individual, police began an impaired operation investigation with the result of the driver being taken into custody. The driver was also found to be suspended from driving. While at the hospital, a demand was made to provide breath into an Approved Instrument.
The accused fail to comply with the demand and as a result, Bonnie STEPHENS (age 69) from the Municipality of Trent Hills, has been charged with:
– Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
– Failure or refusal to comply with demand
– Driving while under suspension.
In addition to future court dates for the accused, a further 90-day Administrative Driver Licence Suspension (ADLS) and a seven-day vehicle impound was initiated as per statute.
The Northumberland OPP urges everyone to plan ahead and arrange for a safe ride home rather than drive while impaired. Call a friend, call a cab or call Operation Red Nose. Remember that any amount of alcohol or drugs can impact your ability to make sound judgements.
If you know or suspect that a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs, please call 9-1-1.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
