FROM: Corporate Communications
DATE: April 7, 2025
ARREST MADE FOLLOWING DANGEROUS DRIVING AND DRUG INVESTIGATION
(BRADFORD, ON) – On April 5, 2025, at approximately 8:40 p.m., a South Simcoe Police officer was on patrol when a grey Honda Accord was found parked at St. Angela Merici Catholic School in Bradford West Gwillimbury. As the officer approached the vehicle, a male and a female occupant were present and there was a strong odour of cannabis, along with smoke or vapour. The officer investigated and found a large amount of marijuana visible on the floor of the vehicle. The driver gave the officer a valid G2 licence, and when the driver was told the vehicle would be searched for drugs, the driver suddenly started the car and attempted to drive away.
A struggle happened between the officer and the driver during which the officer was struck by the door as the car reversed. The driver then sped off, reaching speeds of 100 – 120 km/h in a 40 km/h community safety zone. Due to public safety concerns, the pursuit was immediately discontinued.
Through the initial investigation, police had identified the driver and vehicle. As a result, police later found and arrested the driver without incident at a nearby property. A roadside drug test was conducted on the driver and showed the presence of both cannabis and cocaine. The vehicle was towed and seized for 14 days under Ontario’s Vehicle Impoundment Program and the driver was issued multiple driving suspensions related to his driving and drug use.
As a result of the investigation, a 20-year-old male from Bradford was arrested and charged with:
Criminal Code Charges:
• Assault peace officer – s.270.1(1)(a)
• Flight from peace officer – s.320.17
• Dangerous operation – s.320.13(1)
• Resist arrest – s.129(a)
• Fail to stop after accident – s.320.16(1)
Provincial Offences Charges:
• Stunt Driving – Highway Traffic Act (HTA) s. 72(1)
• Escape by flight (police pursuit) – HTA s.216(3)
• Young driver with presence of drug – HTA s.44.2(6)
• Novice driver with presence of drug – HTA s.44.2(4)
• Cannabis readily available in vehicle – CCA s.12(1)
South Simcoe Police wish to remind the public that road safety is a shared responsibility, and it depends on the decisions you make. Impaired driving is a crime in progress. Do not drive if you will be consuming alcohol or cannabis and always plan ahead to ensure you have a safe ride to and from your destination. Anyone who witnesses a suspected impaired driver is asked to call 9-1-1 immediately.
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