RCMP in Alberta are grateful for a tip from the public that resulted in getting a dangerous driver from Steinbach off the road.
Strathmore RCMP received a report of a possible impaired driver on Highway 1 on October 1 at about 2 PM.
A white utility van was reportedly swerving on the road, causing it to sometimes drift onto the shoulder. Strathmore RCMP responded to find the vehicle parked on the side of the Trans-Canada Highway, where the male driver had exited the van in a confused state.
RCMP say the man was driving drunk, resulting in a 72-hour driving suspension. The vehicle he was driving was reportedly stolen from Calgary six hours earlier.
42-year-old Scott Larocque from Steinbach was charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, and Failure to Comply with a Condition of Release X 2.
Additional Traffic Safety Act charges were levied in relation to the suspended driving. Larocque was remanded into custody to appear at a later date. The vehicle was returned to the owner.
“This report is a positive example of what can be found with timely reporting of suspicious activity or suspected impaired driving. Our members were able to respond in a timely manner to prevent further risk to the public and recover a stolen vehicle. I’d like to thank the person who made this report and encourage the public to continue reporting suspicious activity or dangerous driving," said Staff Sergeant Mark Wielgosz – Detachment Commander – Strathmore RCMP