A Barrie driver is facing multiple charges after allegedly posting a video on Sunday of his own reckless behaviour online.
Barrie police say the video showed a vehicle speeding through a residential area on Leacock Drive, reaching speeds of up to 135 km/h in a posted 50 km/h zone. The footage was recorded just before 3:30 a.m. on February 20, and also shows the driver holding a cellphone and blowing through a stop sign at Letitia Street.
Investigators say the same motorist had been stopped earlier in the day for poor driving. After seeing the video posted on Instagram, a police officer recognized distinctive tattoos and details about the vehicle that helped link the footage to the suspect. Officers confirmed the location using visible landmarks, including a nearby commercial plaza and the city skyline.
"While no pedestrians or other vehicles are visible in the recording, the combination of extreme speed and distracted driving posted a significant public safety risk," police said in a news release.
A 36-year-old man has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and several offences under the Highway Traffic Act, including driving while using a handheld communication device, stunt driving, and failing to stop at a stop sign.
"The Barrie Police Service emphasizes that content shared online can be used as evidence in criminal investigations. Residents are reminded that posting videos of illegal activity may result in charges and legal consequences," the news release stated.
