Members of the Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have laid impaired driving charges against two motorists following unrelated incidents on October 8, 2026.
Shortly before 10:30 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Ontario Street and Main Street in the Municipality of Brighton came upon a single-vehicle collision.
Following speaking to the uninjured motorist, police began an impaired operation investigation which resulted in the person being taken into custody.
As a result, Eric GONET (33) of Brighton has been charged with:
– Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
– Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in November 2026.
Earlier that evening, at approximately 7:10 p.m., officers responded to a report of an unwanted person at a property on Cedar Lane in the Township of Cramahe.
During the interaction, officers initiated an impaired operation investigation which resulted in the individual being arrested.
James MATTHEW (44) of the Township of Cramahe, has been charged with:
– Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
– Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg in November 2026.
For each accused charged with impaired operation, a 90-day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (ADLS) and seven-day vehicle impoundment were also imposed.
As families and friends prepare to gather over the Thanksgiving weekend, the Northumberland OPP is reminding motorists that impaired driving continues to put lives at risk on Ontario roads.
If your celebrations involve alcohol or drugs, plan ahead. Choose a designated driver, arrange a taxi or rideshare, stay overnight, or make other transportation arrangements before heading out. Never get behind the wheel while impaired.
The Northumberland OPP is also encouraging motorists to slow down, avoid distractions, wear a seatbelt, and remain focused on driving. Increased traffic volumes are expected throughout the holiday weekend as residents and visitors travel across Northumberland County and beyond.
The Northumberland OPP wishes everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving weekend.
Learn more about the consequences and penalties of driving impaired at: Impaired driving | ontario.ca
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
