(MADOC TWP., ON) – A Belleville resident is facing numerous charges after a dangerous traffic incident on Highway 62 in Madoc Township.
An officer with the Central Hastings Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was on Highway 62 at Public School Road on Sunday, August 25, 2024, shortly before 6:30 p.m., when he observed a fast-moving pick-up truck heading north on the highway. It was being driven erratically, crossing the centre line and swerving onto the shoulder.
When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle, it accelerated away at speeds well over 150-kiloemtres per hour in an 80-zone. As the driver was heading directly toward the ongoing investigation into an earlier fatal collision in the area, the speeding pick-up posed a serious safety risk.
The pick-up driver eventually pulled over and stopped. The individual was arrested, and officers located cannabis products and alcohol. The driver was transported to the detachment for testing.
As a result of the investigation, Josiah STEWART, age 40 has been charged under the Criminal Code, Cannabis Control Act and Highway Traffic Act with:
- Operation while impaired – alcohol and drug
- Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
- Dangerous operation
- Flight from a peace officer
- Driving with cannabis readily available
- Having care and control of a vehicle with cannabis readily available
- Having care and control of a vehicle with liquor readily available
- Stunt driving – excessive speed
The accused was released and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville on September 12, 2024.