An Ontario Provincial Police cruiser. (Photo by OPP)An Ontario Provincial Police cruiser. (Photo by OPP)
Sarnia

Recognition system alerts OPP to suspended driver

A suspended Sarnia driver caught behind the wheel of a vehicle is facing drug possession charges after being pulled over by Middlesex OPP.

Officers on patrol on June 8 were alerted by the Automatic Licence Plate Recognition (ALPR) system about a possible suspended driver on Nairn Road in Middlesex Centre.

The suspended driver was allegedly found with drugs, including methamphetamine.

He was charged with possession of a schedule I substance - opioid (other than heroin), possession of a schedule I substance - methamphetamine, two counts of driving while under suspension, driving vehicle with liquor readily available, and operation while prohibited under the criminal code.

OPP said he was held for a bail hearing.

In-car camera and ALPR systems have been operating in Middlesex OPP vehicles since March 2023.

Police said they continue to see drivers operating vehicles that do not have valid, registered licence plates, and who are currently driving unlicenced, while under suspension or prohibited.

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