In a worrying reminder of the ongoing battle against impaired driving, a 39-year-old man from Grey Highlands has been charged following an incident at a local business in Markdale on December 3, 2025. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Grey Bruce Detachment responded to a call early that morning regarding a disturbance involving an employee who was suspected of being impaired.

According to reports, the employee became involved in an altercation at the business before leaving the premises. This prompted concerned onlookers to alert the police, who quickly mobilized to investigate the situation. Within a short time, OPP officers located the suspect in Markdale and initiated an impaired driving investigation.

The accused, identified as Curtis Dickie, was arrested and subsequently charged with two serious offences under the Criminal Code: Operation while Impaired - Alcohol, and Operation while Impaired - 80 plus. These charges indicate that Dickie was not only driving under the influence of alcohol but was also above the legal blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.08.

Impaired driving remains a significant issue across Canada, particularly as the holiday season approaches. With festivities often accompanied by increased alcohol consumption, law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to deter impaired driving through active patrols and public education campaigns. The OPP’s swift action in this case underscores their commitment to ensuring public safety on Ontario’s roads.

As winter settles in, road conditions can worsen, making it even more critical for drivers to be vigilant and responsible. The OPP encourages all Canadians to plan ahead, arrange for a designated driver, or use ride-sharing services if consuming alcohol.

Curtis Dickie is facing serious legal repercussions as he prepares to navigate the court system. The OPP emphasizes that impaired driving is not just a personal risk but also a threat to the safety of all road users. As Canadians, we must remain committed to reducing impaired driving incidents and fostering a culture of responsible driving.

This incident serves as a stark reminder that our choices behind the wheel can have grave consequences. As we move into the winter season, let us all pledge to keep our roads safe—not just for ourselves, but for our families and communities.

Impaired driving is an issue that affects us all, and through awareness and responsible decision-making, we can work together to prevent future incidents.