SUDBURY -- The Ontario Provincial Police say a 33-year-old Sudbury man is facing numerous charges after an alleged drunken confrontation with OPP on Highway 11 south of Temagami.

On March 30, shortly before 10 a.m., police say a man approached a cruiser parked on the side of the road and after an argument he went back to his car and allegedly produced a weapon. The suspect then tried to flee the scene.

Another OPP officer arrived and helped arrest the man.

Officials say an investigation revealed the accused had allegedly been drinking.

According to police, the suspect began spitting at the officer from the rear of the cruiser, saying he has COVID-19.

The individual is charged with:

  • Assault a peace officer
  • Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose
  • Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs
  • Assault a peace officer with a weapon
  • Resist peace officer
  • Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
  • Mischief under $5,000

This charge marks the eighth driver charged under criminal impaired driving laws in the Temiskaming detachment area in 2020. In 2019, Temiskaming OPP charged 38 drivers.