Impaired Driver And Passenger Attempt To Flee On Foot

(THAMES CENTRE, ON) – On May 7, 2016, at approximately 1:15 a.m., the Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) observed a motor vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed northbound on Elgin Road, near Gore Road, in the southbound lane.

Police initiated a traffic stop, but the vehicle, a silver Dodge van, failed to stop for police. It was eventually stopped on Plover Mills Road, near Fairview Road.

The two occupants from the vehicle fled on foot, and were apprehended by police a short distance away.

Officers determined the male driver had been drinking alcohol. He was transported to a Middlesex County OPP detachment for breath tests.

As a result of the police investigation, 38-year-old Jacob GIESBRECHT, from Malahide Township, Ontario, has been charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with:

Driving while ability impaired – motor vehicle (alcohol)

Driving with more than 80 mgs of alcohol in blood

Driving while disqualified – court order

Flight while pursued by peace officer

Dangerous operation of motor vehicle X2

He was held in custody, and is scheduled to answer the charges in a London court.

The 27-year-old passenger, Charles ENGELHARDT, from Malahide Township, Ontario, has been charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with:

Obstruct peace officer

Fail to comply with recognizance

He was released from police custody, and is scheduled to answer the charges in a London court, on May 24, 2016.

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