A 20-year-old man was arrested after an incident at a Bradford school, according to South Simcoe police.
An officer was on patrol Saturday around 8:40 p.m. when they found a grey Honda Accord parked at St. Angela Merici Catholic School.
Police say a male and a female were inside the vehicle.
"There was a strong odour of cannabis, along with smoke or vapour," police officials stated in a release. "The officer investigated and found a large amount of marijuana visible on
the floor of the vehicle."
Police say the driver provided a valid G2 licence, but when informed that the vehicle would be searched, he started the car and tried to flee.
“A struggle happened between the officer and the driver during which the officer was struck by the door as the car reversed," police said. "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."
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The suspect was later located and arrested at a nearby property. A roadside drug test was administered and, according to police, showed the presence of both cannabis and cocaine.
The vehicle was seized for 14 days, multiple licence suspensions were issued, and the accused was charged with:
- 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)
- 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," added officials.
