RED LAKE / EAR FALLS, ON – Updated – In what might be like a scene from a country music video, an Ear Falls man was charged with the operation of a motor vehicle, a riding lawnmower, while impaired.
OPP Red Lake/Ear Falls Detachments report that on July 20th, 2020m at approximately 1:49 p.m., officers from the Red Lake & Ear Falls Detachments of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were advised of a possible impaired driver operating a lawnmower, within the Township of Ear Falls.
Through investigation, the driver was located and then was placed under arrest. He was then returned to the detachment for further tests.
OPP state that this is the sixth impaired charge laid in the area in the period from July 17 to July 20th.
The accused was reportedly driving the lawnmower on his property as well as on streets in Ear Falls. While an impaired charge can be laid under the Highway Traffic Act for on the streets, the OPP advise that the Criminal Code of Canada also makes it an offense to operate a motorized vehicle while impaired on private property as well.
As a result of the investigation Mike LAROCHELLE, 48, of Ear Falls, was charged with:
- 1x Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs, contrary to Section 320.14(1)(a) of the Criminal Code;
- 1x Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus), contrary to Section 320.14(1)(b) of the Criminal Code;
He was released by way of Undertaking for Red Lake court on September 17th, 2020 at 9:00 am CDT to answer to the charges.
None of the charges have been proven in court.
The OPP wants to remind the public that operating a truck, car, or lawnmower, a vessel such as a fishing boat, Jet Ski, kayak or canoe, while impaired by drug or alcohol can result in drivers licence suspensions, fines, vehicle impoundments, criminal records & increased insurance costs. Please drive responsibly, don’t drink and drive.
The OPP is committed to safety for all who utilize Ontario’s roadways. Members of the public are urged to report Impaired Driving by calling 911 in emergency situations. Complaints of impaired, aggressive, or careless driving can also be made by calling 1-888-310-1122.
