(CENTRE WELLINGTON TOWNSHIP, ON) – Two impaired drivers were removed from Wellington County roadways over the Family Day long weekend.
On February 16, 2026, at approximately 9:15 p.m., members of the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting a Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) spot check to examine the sobriety of drivers on Millburn Boulevard in Fergus. A vehicle entered the checkpoint and officers detected signs of impairment.
As a result of the investigation, John HEPWORTH, a 59-year-old from Fergus is charged under the Criminal Code with:
- Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
The accused was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on March 31, 2026.
A 90-day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension (ADLS) and a seven-day vehicle impoundment was initiated as per statute.
Additionally, on February 17, 2026, at approximately 2:00 a.m., members of the Wellington County OPP responded to the report of a single-vehicle collision with a hydro pole on Geddes Street in Elora.
As a result of the investigation, Courtney BABIN, a 30-year-old from Elora is charged under the Criminal Code with:
- Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
- Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
- Dangerous operation
The accused was transported to hospital as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported.
A 90-day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension (ADLS) and a seven-day vehicle impoundment was initiated as per statute.
The accused was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on April 10, 2026.
The OPP is committed to safety for all who utilize Ontario’s roadways. If you have an urgent traffic complaint or if you suspect someone is driving while their ability to operate a motor vehicle is impaired by drugs or alcohol, please call 911 immediately.
Should you wish to be anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington at www.csgw.tips or toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS or 8477. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.