Impaired Driver Facing Several Charges After Fleeing from Police

Lyndhurst – A driver is facing several charges after fleeing from police when found asleep at the wheel.

On Friday, March 13, 2026, shortly after 12:30 a.m., members of the Leeds County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) located an idling vehicle on the shoulder of Highway 15. Officers found the lone driver asleep at the wheel.

When police woke the driver, the driver put the vehicle in gear and sped off. Officers located the same vehicle idling a short distance away only moments later. The driver was arrested and examined by an OPP Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).

As a result of the investigation, 33-year-old Paul PETERS of Elgin has been charged with the following offences:

• Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs
• Flight from peace officer
• Fail to properly wear seat belt
• Driving motor vehicle with liquor readily available

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Brockville on May 1, 2026. Their driver’s licence was suspended for 90 days, and the vehicle was impounded for seven days.

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you witness dangerous or erratic driving behaviour, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.