Members of the City of Kawartha Lakes Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) laid multiple impaired driving charges over the Civic Holiday weekend through proactive enforcement efforts on both local roadways and waterways.
On August 1, 2026, at approximately 7:35 p.m., officers conducting marine patrol on Shadow Lake attempted to complete a vessel inspection. The vessel operator attempted to evade officers by returning to a nearby residence and locking the doors. Following an investigation, the operator was arrested and charged.
Dipak PATEL, 53-year-old of Sutton West, was charged with:
Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
Obstruct Peace Officer
Later that evening, on August 1, 2026, at approximately 11:29 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of Clifton Street. As a result of the investigation, the driver was arrested and charged with impaired driving offences.
Simransingh, 27-year-old of Brampton, was charged with:
Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
On August 3, 2026, at approximately 5:48 p.m., officers were conducting a RIDE program in the area of Dunsford Road and Sturgeon Road when they observed a motorist with open alcohol inside the vehicle. As a result of the investigation, the driver was arrested and charged with impaired driving offences.
Michael PIDGEON, 68-year-old of Verulam Township, was charged with:
Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
All accused are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Lindsay at a later date. As a result of the impaired driving charges, the drivers received immediate 90-day driver’s licence suspensions, and the involved vehicles and vessel were dealt with in accordance with provincial legislation.
With summer boating season in full swing, the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP is reminding the public that operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs is a criminal offence and carries the same serious consequences as impaired driving on the road. Impaired boat operators put themselves, their passengers, swimmers, and other waterway users at significant risk.
Officers continue to patrol local lakes and waterways to ensure compliance with marine safety laws. Boaters are reminded to carry all required safety equipment, wear a properly fitted lifejacket, operate at safe speeds, and designate a sober operator before leaving the dock. A day on the water can quickly become a tragedy when alcohol or drugs are involved.
The Ontario Provincial Police appreciates the assistance of responsible citizens who report concerning driving or boating behaviour. Public reports play a vital role in helping officers identify and remove impaired operators before tragedy occurs. If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle or vessel while impaired, safely contact 9-1-1 and provide as much information as possible.
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
