(WEST PERTH, ON) – One person has been charged for driving impaired after being stopped for using a handheld communication device in the Municipality of North Perth.
On January 21, 2026 at approximately 9:30 a.m. the Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) observed an individual operating a motor vehicle while using a handheld communication device on Kincaid St West in the Town of Listowel. Upon stopping the vehicle, further investigation revealed the driver to be impaired with open alcohol containers in the vehicle.
The driver, 31-year-old Harvinder Singh of Listowel was charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Operation while Impaired
- Operation while Impaired – Blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
- Dangerous Operation
Further, the accused was charged with:
- Drive – Handheld communication device, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act
- Driving motor vehicle with liquor readily available, contrary to the Liquor Licence Control Act.
The accused was arrested and released from custody, scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Stratford on February 23, 2026. The accused is also facing a 90-day drivers licence suspension, 7-day motor vehicle impoundment as well as tow and impound fees.
The Perth County OPP is committed to reducing impaired driving everywhere. If you drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will be caught. If you suspect someone is driving while impaired, please call 9-1-1. Your call could save a life.