Northern Ont. resident stuck in snow faces impaired driving, threat charges following domestic disturbance

A woman sits on the edge of a bed shrouded in shadow. (File photo/Shutterstock)

A domestic disturbance call in Cochrane, Ont. has resulted in impaired driving and threat charges for a local resident, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) said in a news release.

On March 3 at about 11:45 p.m., officers from the James Bay OPP detachment responded to a report of a “disturbance” at a residence on Highway 11 South.

“Police were advised that an individual had arrived at the home by vehicle and was attempting to break a window,” OPP said.

“Upon police arrival, the suspect fled on foot but became stuck in waist-high snow, allowing officers to take them into custody.”

Authorities said they determined the individual had been consuming alcohol before driving to the residence, according to the release.

“The suspect was transported to the Cochrane OPP detachment for further testing but refused to comply with the breath demand,” said police.

As a result of the investigation, the 24-year-old local resident has been charged with impaired driving, refusal to comply with demand, driving while suspended, operation while prohibited along with a charge of uttering threats.

In addition to the charges, the accused also had their licence suspended for 90 days and the vehicle involved was impounded by police for seven days at the owner’s expense.

“Due to the intimate partner nature of the incident, the name of the accused will not be released to protect the victim’s identity,” police said.

The accused was released and is scheduled to appear in court on April 15.

Help available

Victims of domestic abuse are not alone, OPP said on their website.

“If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help and support are available. You are not alone,” police said in the news release.

Victims in this area can contact the Cochrane District Victim Services 24-hour crisis line at 1-877-264-4208 for assistance and guidance.

OPP also reminded individuals that in emergencies, call 911 immediately.