Teen allegedly attempting to avoid R.I.D.E. program leads to police chase, arrest

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A 19-year-old driver is facing numerous charges after reportedly attempting to avoid a R.I.D.E. program and flee from police in Essa Township late Christmas night.

According to Nottawasaga OPP, officers were conducting a R.I.D.E program at 11:50 p.m. on County Road 90 and observed an approaching vehicle turn around to avoid it.

Police say the officers pursued the vehicle in an attempt to stop it, but it failed to stop. The officers eventually disengaged their pursuit for public safety reasons.

Then, just after midnight on Thursday, the suspect vehicle was observed by officers conducting patrols along County Road 90 according to Nottawasaga OPP. The officers reportedly followed the vehicle and confirmed it was the one that had attempted to avoid the initial R.I.D.E. program.

Police say the vehicle pulled into a parking lot, and when the officers attempted to stop it, the vehicle attempted to flee again. However, police confirm that the pursuit ended with the vehicle crashing into a hydro box and getting stuck. No injuries were reported in the collision.

The 19-year-old driver from Angus was arrested and charged with operation while impaired (alcohol and drugs and blood alcohol concentration 80-plus), dangerous operation and flight from a peace officer.

Their licence was suspended for 90 days and their vehicle was impounded for seven days.

The accused was released from custody with conditions and is scheduled for a future court appearance.