John BAKELAAR – Drunk Driving

(THAMES CENTRE, ON) – Driver facing impaired charge after colliding with a parked car in Dorchester.

On August 2, 2025, at 2:50 p.m., members of the Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were dispatched to Maplewood Place in Dorchester, the Municipality of Thames Centre, for the report of a fail to remain collision.

Investigation revealed a vehicle struck a parked car and fled the scene. While police were investigating the suspect vehicle returned to the scene.

The driver was placed under arrest and transported to the Middlesex OPP detachment.

As a result, John BAKELAAR, an 85-year-old of Dorchester, has been charged under the Criminal Code with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused has been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice to speak to the charges on September 15, 2025.

The Middlesex OPP wants to remind the public that if you see anything suspicious or suspect an impaired driver you should contact the Ontario Provincial Police or your nearest police authority immediately.

The OPP can be reached anywhere in the Province of Ontario at 1-888-310-1122. 

If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.  

Over 150,000 Monthly Readers! 1 Million+ Across the entire FreePress Network.