FORT FRANCES, ON – May 6, 2025 – A routine traffic stop for suspected insurance non-compliance has led to an impaired driving arrest in Fort Frances.
At approximately 2:30 a.m. on May 2, an officer with the Fort Frances Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) stopped a vehicle in the 2nd Street East area after a routine licence plate check flagged a possible issue with insurance coverage.
Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer detected signs of alcohol consumption and administered an approved roadside screening device test, which the driver failed. The individual was arrested at the scene and transported to the Fort Frances detachment for further breath testing.
Charges Laid
As a result, Chad Nicolas SMITH, 25, of Fort Frances, has been charged with:
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Operation While Impaired – Alcohol or Drug
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Operation While Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration (80+ mg)
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Operate a Motor Vehicle Without Insurance
Smith’s driver’s licence was suspended for 90 days, and the vehicle was impounded for seven days. He has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Fort Frances Ontario Court of Justice on June 2, 2025.
How to Avoid an Impaired Driving Charge
🚫 Don’t take the risk. One poor choice can change your life.
Here are smart ways to stay safe and legal:
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Designate a sober driver before going out
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Use a taxi or rideshare app if you’ve been drinking
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Stay overnight or arrange a safe pickup from a friend or family member
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Don’t mix alcohol with cannabis or medications—it increases impairment
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If in doubt, don’t drive. Wait it out or make alternate arrangements
The True Cost of Impaired Driving
Being charged with impaired driving has far-reaching consequences, including:
💰 Financial Costs
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Fines often exceeding $1,000
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Towing and impound fees
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Legal representation costs
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Skyrocketing insurance premiums—or loss of coverage entirely
⚖️ Legal and Licensing Consequences
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Immediate 90-day licence suspension
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Criminal record, which can impact travel and employment
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Mandatory education or treatment programs
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Possible jail time for repeat offenders
📉 Personal and Professional Impact
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Job loss, especially in professions requiring driving or security clearance
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Damage to personal and professional reputation
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Strain on relationships and community trust
Report Impaired Drivers
If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 9-1-1 immediately. You could save a life.
