(COCHRANE, ON) – The James Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has charged a commercial driver following an impaired driving investigation that began during a proactive traffic stop on Highway 11.
On January 26, 2026, at approximately 8:30 p.m., James Bay OPP officers conducted a traffic stop on a commercial motor vehicle parked beside a posted “No Parking” sign in the westbound lane of Highway 11 West. While speaking with the driver, officers observed an open can of alcoholic beverage in the cup holder, along with several unopened cans of alcohol within reach.
The driver was arrested and transported to the Cochrane OPP detachment for further testing.
As a result of the investigation, Mandeep SINGH, 28 years of age, of Shelburne, has been charged with:
· Operation while impaired – alcohol
· Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
· Driving a motor vehicle with liquor readily available
· Having care or control of a motor vehicle with an open container of alcohol
· Disobey sign
· Interfere with traffic
The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on March 10, 2026, in Cochrane. The driver was issued a 90‑day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (ADLS), and the tractor unit was impounded for seven days.
Commercial drivers operate some of the largest and heaviest vehicles on Ontario roadways, and impaired operation puts drivers and all road users at significant risk. If you suspect that someone is driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, call 9‑1‑1 immediately.