A 45-year-old man from Fergus has been charged with driving while under suspension following a recent RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) check conducted by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Centre Wellington.

The incident unfolded on September 30, 2025, at approximately 11:00 p.m. According to the OPP, officers were actively conducting a RIDE program when they observed a vehicle approach the checkpoint. Rather than stopping, the driver suddenly halted, performed a U-turn, and fled in the opposite direction. This suspicious behaviour prompted the officers to pursue and stop the vehicle.

Upon approaching the driver, police discovered that the individual was operating the vehicle while suspended. As a result, he was charged under the Highway Traffic Act for driving while under suspension.

The accused is scheduled to appear in the Provincial Offences Court in Guelph at a later date. This incident is a reminder of the OPP’s commitment to ensuring road safety through vigilant enforcement operations, particularly during RIDE checks aimed at reducing impaired and unsafe driving practices.

Driving while suspended is a serious offence that can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential further suspension of driving privileges. The OPP continues to encourage all drivers to obey traffic laws and ensure they are legally permitted to operate a vehicle.

As the OPP ramps up its enforcement efforts, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour that may compromise road safety.