Hearst driver, 21, charged with drug impaired driving

Ending impaired driving in northern Ontario A number of groups met Monday in North Bay with an ambitious shared goal: finding ways to end impaired driving.

A 21-year-old driver from the northern Ontario community of Hearst was charged with drug impaired driving and cocaine possession, Ontario Provincial Police say.

The white Ford pickup truck was pulled over on Byng Avenue in Kapuskasing on Dec. 16.

"Officers determined the driver had consumed an intoxicating substance and made an arrest," OPP said.

"A search revealed a small quantity of suspected cocaine."

The driver was also charged with several traffic-related offences, had their licence suspended for 90 days and had their truck impounded for a week.

"Impaired driving, whether by drugs or alcohol, puts lives at risk," OPP said.

"Always plan for a safe way home. If you suspect impaired driving, call 911."