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Community tip leads to charges for Bracebridge man

Police received several complaints about a car driving erratically in the Bracebridge area
11-07-18 OPP Stock
Stock image

NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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BRACEBRIDGE - Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Bracebridge Detachment arrested a driver on Feb. 20, 2019 after his driving compelled concerned members of the community to contact police.

During the evening of Feb. 19, 2019, Bracebridge OPP received several complaints about a small car being operated erratically in the Bracebridge area. Community members were able to describe the car and even reported the vehicle's licence plate to police, dramatically increasing the officer's ability to locate the offending vehicle.

Shortly after midnight, on the morning of Feb. 20, 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 of Bracebridge 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.

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

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.  

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