Public helps police bust impaired driver

Thanks to some help from the public, police nabbed a Couchiching First Nation man for impaired driving, among other charges, on Tuesday afternoon.
Around 2:30 p.m. that day, Fort Frances OPP officers received a phone call from a concerned citizen reporting that a southbound vehicle on Highway 71 was being driven in an erratic manner.
Then shortly after 3 p.m., officers received a second phone call reporting the same vehicle had been involved in an accident on the 800 block of King’s Highway here, and that the driver had failed to remain at the scene.
Police located the vehicle a short time later and subsequently arrested the 35-year-old.
He was arrested and charged with impaired operation of a motor vehicle, operation of motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level over 80 mg, and failing to remain at the scene of an accident.
He was released from custody and will appear in court at a later date.
In other news, police said yesterday that a 50-year-old Devlin man has been charged in connection with a marijuana-growing operation discovered in a barn there last month.
The man was charged with production of marijuana and will appear in court Sept. 7.
After receiving information regarding a marijuana-growing operation back on July 12, officers located marijuana plants growing in a barn shortly after 10 p.m.
Police subsequently seized 36 marijuana plants as well as equipment used in a hydroponics grow operation.
As well, the OPP also would like to address the latest fad to hit highways and streets across North America. They are called “pocket bikes” or “mini-motorcycles.”
These miniature motorcycles weigh up to 28 kg, have an engine of 43-49 cu. cm, and can reach speeds upwards of 50 km/h.
These vehicles are intended for off-road use or operated on private property, but some drivers may be using them on roadways, police said.
Police said these vehicles are not toys and, as such, are required to meet the equipment standards contained in the Highway Traffic Act. Drivers also need to be licensed and wear a helmet.
Furthermore, the requirements of the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act also apply, police said.