Alcohol, keys and police handcuffs depicting drinking and driving.  © Can Stock Photo / jirkaejcAlcohol, keys and police handcuffs depicting drinking and driving. © Can Stock Photo / jirkaejc
Sarnia

Expired plates result in arrest of alleged drunk driver

A driver stopped by Lambton OPP for having expired licence plates is now facing impaired driving charges.

While on patrol in St. Clair Township Thursday night at 9:40 p.m., officers were alerted by their in-car camera system about a vehicle.

The vehicle was stopped on St. Clair Boulevard so that officers could notify the driver. However, the driver was given a roadside test after it was apparent they allegedly consumed alcohol.

Police said the accused was arrested and taken to an OPP detachment where they provided two samples over the legal limit.

A 33-year-old St. Clair Township man was charged with operation while impaired and operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus).

He was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

Lambton OPP's police vehicles are now equipped with in-car cameras which also utilizes the Automatic Licence Plate Reader system. This system alerts officers of any issues with a driver or vehicle's licence status.

The provincial government eliminated fees and sticker requirements for passenger vehicles, light-duty trucks, motorcycles, and mopeds in 2022. However, motorists are still required to renew their licence plates (free of charge) online.

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