SHUNIAH — NetNewsLedger Crime News — Ontario Provincial Police say a Thunder Bay driver is facing an impaired driving charge after a speeding stop on Highway 11-17 near McKenzie Station Road in the Municipality of Shuniah.
OPP report that on February 9, 2025, at about 4:59 p.m., officers conducting speed enforcement observed a vehicle travelling 131 km/h in a posted 90 km/h zone. A traffic stop was initiated.
Police allege the driver performed poorly on a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST), and was arrested. OPP also report the driver was wanted on outstanding warrants and was taken to the detachment for further testing. The charge allegations have not been proven in court.
Charges Laid
OPP say Michelle Lynn KING, 48, of Thunder Bay has been charged with:
Criminal Code
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Operation while impaired — alcohol and drugs (impaired operation is captured under Criminal Code s. 320.14).
Provincial Offences (Highway Traffic Act)
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Speeding (1–49 km/h over the posted limit)
The accused was held for a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on January 10, 2026, police said.
What the Criminal Code impaired driving charge means
“Operation while impaired” generally alleges a person operated a vehicle while their ability was impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination—even “to any degree” under the Criminal Code wording.
In impaired driving cases, evidence can include driving observations, physical coordination tests (like SFST), and—depending on what was demanded and completed—breath or drug-related testing.
If convicted: potential Criminal Code penalties
Federal impaired-driving penalties can be severe and escalate for repeat offences. The federal government’s overview lists for an impaired driving conviction:
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First offence: mandatory minimum $1,000 fine (in many impaired categories), with a maximum of 10 years imprisonment
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Second offence: mandatory minimum 30 days jail
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Third offence: mandatory minimum 120 days jail
In addition, the Criminal Code requires a driving prohibition order on conviction for impaired operation:
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First offence: 1 to 3 years (plus any jail time imposed)
(Second and subsequent offences carry longer mandatory minimum prohibition ranges.)
Ontario consequences beyond court
Even before a case is decided in court, impaired-related investigations can trigger administrative consequences in Ontario, separate from the Criminal Code prosecution.
Ontario’s licence appeal tribunal materials explain that a 90-day administrative driver’s licence suspension may apply in situations such as an alleged “80 mg” breath/blood alcohol result or a refusal/failure to comply with certain Criminal Code demands, and can also apply in drug or combined drug/alcohol impairment circumstances under related HTA sections.
If there is a conviction, Ontario also requires additional steps and costs before a licence can be reinstated, including:
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Ignition interlock: Ontario’s program states a minimum of 1 year ignition interlock for first-time offenders once driving privileges are restored.
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Back on Track remedial measures: CAMH notes completion is required under the Highway Traffic Act for convicted impaired drivers, and CAMH’s registration page lists a $894 fee for convicted drivers.
Speeding penalties: what 131 in a 90 can mean
If the speeding charge is proven in court, Ontario lists a set fine structure where 30–49 km/h over is assessed at $12 per km (plus court fees and surcharges) under the Ontario Court of Justice set fine schedule.
Ontario also notes that a speeding conviction 30–49 km/h over carries 4 demerit points.
The economic and social impacts of an impaired driving conviction
Beyond fines and suspensions, an impaired driving conviction can create long-term ripple effects:
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Insurance: Ontario’s regulator notes high-risk drivers may be pushed to the Facility Association, “an insurer of last resort,” and that this coverage costs significantly more than standard insurance.
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Employment: A Criminal Code conviction can affect background checks, professional licensing, and any job requiring a clean driving record or company vehicle eligibility—especially during a driving prohibition period.
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Travel: U.S. Customs and Border Protection states a single DUI conviction is not automatically grounds to deny entry to the U.S., but it can still be a factor considered during admissibility screening.
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Family and community impacts: Loss of licence can affect caregiving, school drop-offs, work commutes, and participation in community life—particularly in areas with limited transportation alternatives.
OPP reminder: report impaired driving
The OPP urge the public to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911 in emergencies. Complaints of impaired, aggressive, or careless driving can also be made by calling 1-888-310-1122.
