The Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to several incidents over the weekend, resulting in multiple charges being laid, including theft, drug possession, and stunt driving.
Collision Results in Drug Charges
On September 6, 2025, at approximately 9:15 a.m., police responded to a single-vehicle collision on Highway 401 eastbound in the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand. The vehicle was reported to be on its side and off the roadway. The Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) also attended to assist the two occupants.
Both individuals were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
As a result of the investigation, a quantity of drugs was seized and additional offences were identified.
Philippe POLIQUIN (44) from Quebec has been charged with:
Possession of a Schedule I substance – methamphetamine Fail to comply with probation order
Careless driving
Driving motor vehicle – no licence
Drive vehicle or boat with cannabis readily available
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in October.
Theft Charges
On September 5, 2025, shortly after 2:00 p.m., officers were called to a commercial premises on Canrobert Street in the Municipality of Trent Hills.
Officers spoke with the complainant, who reported that two individuals were observed taking items without payment.
As a result, the following individuals were taken into custody and charged with:
Sony CLARK (50) from Centre Hastings – Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting
Daniel RUTTAN (48) from Centre Hastings – Theft under $5,000 – shoplifting
Both accused are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in October.
ATV Collision
On September 6, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., emergency services responded to a collision involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in the trail area off County Road 27 in the Municipality of Brighton.
The operator sustained serious injuries, and Air ORNGE was requested to attend the scene. The individual was subsequently transported to a Toronto-area hospital for medical treatment.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing. Updates will be provided when available.
Northumberland OPP reminds the public of the following safety tips for off-road vehicle (ORV) riders:
Always wear a comfortable, well-fitted, and fastened approved helmet
Never drink and ride
Take a safety course and get to know your equipment
Stay in control and ride within your skill l evel
Know the laws and your responsibilities wherever you ride
Let someone know about your trip or activity plans
Always be prepared for the unexpected. Carry a tool kit, first aid supplies, tow rope, flashlight, tire repair kit, high-energy food, and a cell phone. Also carry a map, compass or GPS unit, and know how to use them.
Speed enforcement
On September 7, 2025, shortly after 3:20 p.m., an officer conducting traffic enforcement on Oak Ridges Drive in the Township of Hamilton observed a passenger vehicle travelling at 184 km/h in a posted 80 km/h zone.
The vehicle was stopped, and the 56-year-old male driver from the Municipality of Port Hope was charged with:
Drive motor vehicle – perform stunt – excessive speed
His driver’s licence was suspended for 14 days, and the vehicle was impounded for&n bsp;30 days.
Excessive speed reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance, and puts everyone on the road at risk. Northumberland OPP is committed to keeping our roads safe. Drive responsibly as lives depend on it.
The Northumberland OPP is committed to building safe communities. If you have information about suspected unlawful activity, please contact Crime Stoppers at stopcrimehere.ca or call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
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
