(ESPANOLA, ON) – Two people are facing charges after a traffic stop for speeding led to drug and impaired related charges.
On Sunday, March 8, 2026, at approximately 3:00 a.m., members of the Manitoulin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) observed a vehicle travelling 90 km/h in a 60 km/h zone on Highway 17 near Michon Road in the Baldwin Township. A traffic stop was initiated, and further investigation resulted in the driver and passenger being arrested.
In addition, police seized a quantity of suspected crack cocaine with an estimated street value of $600, a quantity of suspected methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $30, and drug paraphernalia.
The driver, Blake WOOD, 34-years-old from Burford, was charged with:
- Speeding 1-49 km/h over posted limit
- Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
- Possession of a Schedule I substance – cocaine
- Possession of a Schedule I substance – methamphetamine
- Operation while impaired
The passenger, Amanda MATHEWSON, 42-years-old from Norfolk County, was charged with:
- Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
- Possession of a Schedule I substance – methamphetamine
Both accused are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.