Officials with the Town of Goderich and Huron County OPP are issuing a warning to possible participants of a planned unsanctioned car rally.
Police say in a release that "a recent unauthorized modified car rally event in Wasaga Beach resulted in numerous participants engaging in illegal acts including mischief, dangerous driving, impaired driving, disturbing the peace, break and entering, and other offences. Police laid numerous criminal and traffic-related charges in connection with that event." Now police say they and Goderich town officials will be working to ensure no such disturbances are seen this coming weekend (September 24 and 25) in the town with a similar planned rally being shared online.
The release also states that "the Town of Goderich and Huron County OPP may temporarily close roadways to prevent illegal activities and disruptions. Should this happen, officials will work to restore the orderly flow of traffic." Anyone who participates in an unsanctioned car rally may be charged and their vehicle may be towed.
"Should an unauthorized car rally attempt to come to Goderich this weekend I want to reassure our local citizens we are fully prepared and have the necessary policing resources in place to protect our community. Community safety is our highest priority, and we will do absolutely everything within our policing and municipal powers to ensure it," says Huron OPP Detachment Commander, Inspector Jason Younan
"The Town of Goderich is working together in a public safety partnership with the Ontario Provincial Police to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and law-abiding visitors. Responsible and respectful visitors who follow the law are always encouraged to visit the Town of Goderich. The Ontario Provincial Police has all the resources required to deal with this unauthorized Car Rally. I ask residents who witness illegal activity to avoid intervening in an effort to stop it. Instead, please report this activity to police immediately and allow them to do their job. This is for your safety. I thank you for your support and your patience," adds Town of Goderich, Acting Mayor Myles Murdock.