A driver who failed to properly stop for police is now facing multiple criminal and provincial charges.
On Monday at approximately 10:57 a.m., an officer with the Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Provincial Police was patrolling Highway 17 in Goulais River when they observed a motor vehicle travelling on a portion of the road that was closed due to weather conditions.
“The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, however after initially pulling over, the driver then fled the scene. Officers pursued the vehicle and completed a tandem traffic stop, where the driver was arrested,” the OPP said in a release.
An investigation revealed the licence plates were stolen and did not belong to the stopped vehicle.
Police also confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen. In addition, the driver was found to have a suspended driver's licence.
As a result, Scott Mackenzie, 49, of no fixed address, was charged with:
- Dangerous operation
- Flight from peace officer
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 - two counts
- Refusal to comply with demand
- Fail to stop for police
- Drive on closed highway
- Disobey stop sign - fail to stop
- Drive left of centre - on a curve
- Use plate not authorized for vehicle
- Fail to surrender insurance card
- Driving while under suspension
The accused was held for a bail hearing, and subsequently remanded into custody.
None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.