(WELLINGTON NORTH TOWNSHIP, ON) – A Palmerston driver is charged following a traffic stop in Mount Forest.
On February 1, 2026, at approximately 7:45 p.m., a member of the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Traffic Management Unit was conducting proactive traffic enforcement on Egremont Street North in Mount Forest, when they observed a vehicle displaying concerning driving behaviour.
As a result of the investigation, Erik FRIEDEL, a 71-year-old from Palmerston, is charged under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act and the Highway Traffic Act with:
- Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine
- Driving while under suspension
- Operate a motor vehicle without insurance
Police seized suspected methamphetamine, cash and indicia related to drug trafficking.
The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Guelph on April 21, 2026.
The OPP is committed to safety for all who utilize Ontario’s roadways. If you have an urgent traffic complaint or if you suspect someone is driving while their ability to operate a motor vehicle is impaired by drugs or alcohol, please call 911 immediately.
Should you wish to be anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington at www.csgw.tips or toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS or 8477. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.