NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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MIDLAND - Members of the Marine Patrol attached to the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were on patrol over the weekend checking on area boaters for proper vessel equipment and driver sobriety.
Officers stopped and checked 24 vessels during their 23 hours of patrol resulting in two charges under the Canada Shipping act for vessel registration and proof of operator competency infractions.
At 9:51 p.m. on June 2, 2018 officers stopped and checked a power boat in the Main Channel of Honey Harbour, Georgian Bay Township. The officers, while inspecting for equipment, entered into a drinking and operating investigation after speaking with the vessel operator.
The investigation continued after an approved screening device was used and the male operator was transported to Southern Georgian Bay OPP Detachment for further investigation.
As a result of this investigation, Charlie John Wingfelder 25 years of Buffalo, New York has been charged with - Operate Vessel with more than 80 mgs of Alcohol in Blood contrary to section 253(1)(b) of the Criminal Code of Canada. He was released from police custody on a recognizance to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Midland on June 21, 2018.
Officers crewing the OPP Patrol Vessel Thomas P. Coffin remind all vessel operators that they are checking for vessel equipment and for liquor offences which they are vigorously enforcing in an effort to reduce injuries and fatalities on our area waterways this summer. For more information on safe vessel operation and equipment please view the following web sites.
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/marinesafety/debs-obs-menu-1362.htm
http://www.tc.gc.ca/fra/securitemaritime/desn-bsn-menu-1362.htm
Police remind motorists that an essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on our trails, roadways and waterways. Educating the public about safe driving practices is a priority.
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