FORT FRANCES, ON – Proactive traffic enforcement by the Fort Frances Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) resulted in the apprehension of two impaired drivers on consecutive night shifts.
On July 20, 2024, around 1:30 am, an OPP officer in Fort Frances stopped a vehicle for a red-light violation on Second Street East. The officer determined that the driver was impaired and took him into custody.
On July 21, 2024, around 1:20 am, the same officer stopped another vehicle swerving within its lane in the Fernette Avenue area. The officer conducted a roadside test, which the driver failed, leading to his arrest.
Both individuals underwent breath alcohol testing at the Fort Frances Detachment and were subsequently released. Their licenses were suspended for 90 days, and their vehicles were impounded for seven days.
William Flemming Smith, 26, from Thunder Bay, was charged with impaired operation of alcohol or drugs, and impaired operation with a blood alcohol concentration over 80. He also received offence notices for a red-light violation and an open liquor violation. Smith is scheduled to appear in the Fort Frances Ontario Court of Justice on August 19, 2024.
Richard Lamont, 20, from Thunder Bay, was charged with impaired operation of alcohol or drugs, and impaired operation with a blood alcohol concentration over 80. He also received an offence notice for a novice driver alcohol violation. Lamont is scheduled to appear in the Fort Frances Ontario Court of Justice on September 16, 2024.
The OPP is dedicated to improving road safety through proactive enforcement, public awareness, and thorough traffic incident investigations. If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, call 911.