Bracebridge man caught with open booze, drugs in car after public complaints

BRACEBRIDGE  — A young male driver faces a slew of Highway Traffic Act, alcohol and drug charges after becoming stuck in a snowbank after police received public complaints about an erratic driver Tuesday night.

A young Bracebridge driver was reportedly driving erratically before police found he and his car stuck in a snowbank

Provincial police in pursuit of the suspect arrested the driver just after midnight today, after his driving compelled concerned members of the community to contact the OPP in Bracebridge.

Police say that on the evening of February 19, 2019, community members were able to describe the car and even reported the vehicles licence plate to police, dramatically increasing the officer’s ability to locate the offending vehicle.

Shortly after midnight, officers observed the suspect vehicle in the Clearbrook Trail area of Bracebridge.

As officers closed in, the suspect attempted to back into a driveway to turn around, but instead struck a snow bank and found himself stuck.

Officers approached the vehicle where they discovered drugs, open alcohol and were even handed fake insurance information for the vehicle.

As a result of the stop and investigation, 21 year old Zachary Sheard was arrested and charged with Possession of Cocaine under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and Using a Forged Document under the Criminal Code.

Furthermore, Sheard was charged with a number of Provincial Offences including; Drive without proper rear lights – motor vehicle contrary to the Highway Traffic Act, Drive motor vehicle with open container of liquor contrary to the Liquor Licence Act, Drive vehicle with cannabis readily available contrary to the Cannabis Act, and finally Possess fraudulent proof of insurance contrary to the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act.

Sheard will appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on March 19th to answer to his charges.

Police claim this is an excellent example of the community and the police working together to keep our streets safe. The OPP extend their appreciation to the engaged community members that reached out to help. If you observe or suspect someone is driving dangerously or impaired by alcohol or drug, please contact the police at either (888) 310-1122 or 911.