SUDBURY -- A constable with the Greater Sudbury Police Service who was hired in April has been suspended after he was charged with impaired driving while he was off duty.
He was pulled over at 11 a.m. Nov. 13 on MR80 by Sudbury police and charged with impaired driving and driving with more than the legal limit of alcohol in the bloodstream.
In a news release Monday, Chief Paul Pedersen said he was "very disheartened" to learn of the arrest.
“The actions of this police officer do not reflect the Greater Sudbury Police Service’s values or mission to ensure a culture of trust through professional service while empowering our community to enhance safety,” Pedersen said. “While these are accusations at this point, I am nevertheless very disheartened by this incident. Each and every day, our members are committed to protecting and serving our community and keeping people safe.
"Road safety is of the utmost importance. Members who fail to uphold our values and make the inexcusable decision to drive while impaired will be held accountable for their actions, without exception.”
Under the Police Service Act of Ontario, the officer will be suspended from duty with pay. The incident has also been forwarded to the Professional Standards Bureau for further investigation. The officer may be subject to additional charges under the Police Service Act, the release said.
"We remind everyone that there is never an excuse to operate a vehicle while impaired," police said. "Please plan ahead; call a taxi; take public transit; have a designated driver or stay the night. Choosing to drive while impaired is a criminal choice and we will continue to hold offenders accountable."
If you see an impaired driver in progress, call 911. To report unsafe driving concerns, please call us at 705-675-9171 or report online.
