Sudbury Man Charged After Attempting to Switch Seats During Traffic Stop in Northeastern Manitoulin


In a peculiar turn of events, a Sudbury man was charged after attempting a risky seat switch during a traffic stop on Highway 6 in the Township of Northeastern Manitoulin. On October 12, 2025, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting a routine speed enforcement operation when they clocked a vehicle speeding at 119 km/h in an 80 km/h zone.

As officers initiated the traffic stop around 8:30 a.m., the situation took an unexpected twist. Instead of complying with the officer’s instructions, the driver, identified as 37-year-old Michel Desormeaux, moved from the driver’s seat to the rear passenger seat. In what can only be described as a misguided attempt to evade consequences, the front passenger slid into the driver’s seat.

This unusual manoeuvre did not go unnoticed. Officers quickly determined that Desormeaux was driving under suspension, a revelation that ultimately led to his arrest. The bizarre incident underscores the lengths some individuals might go to avoid accountability, but it also highlights the vigilance of the OPP in enforcing traffic laws to ensure road safety for all Ontarians.

Desormeaux is facing several charges, including two counts of driving while under suspension, failure to comply with a release order, and speeding—specifically for driving 1-49 km/h over the posted limit. His court appearance is scheduled for November 4, 2025, at the Ontario Court of Justice in Gore Bay.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of obeying traffic laws and the potential repercussions of attempting to evade law enforcement. The OPP continues to remind drivers to stay safe on the roads and to obey speed limits, not only for their safety but for the safety of all road users.

As Canadians, we pride ourselves on our commitment to safety and responsible driving. It is incidents like these that reinforce the need for adherence to the law and the consequences of reckless behaviour behind the wheel. Let us all strive to keep our roads safe and our communities secure.