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Broadcast time: 10:45 AM |
Date: March 30, 2020 |
On March 28, 2020, at approximately 4:30 AM, the Sarnia Police were contacted regarding a suspicious vehicle in a parking lot, in the 900 block of Tashmoo Avenue, and occupants possibly consuming drugs.
As officers arrived in the area they observed a motor vehicle parked in the corner of the parking lot. As officers drove towards the vehicle the suspect vehicle drove directly at the police car nearly striking it and left the area heading westbound on Plain Lane.
Officers were able to re-locate the vehicle travelling southbound on Highway 40 and observed the vehicle to be travelling in an erratic manner by crossing lanes and driving on the gravel shoulders at times. The vehicle continued to be driven in a dangerous manner as it continued to head southbound on Highway 40 and continued onto side roads. There were concerns that the suspect driver was impaired and the vehicle he was driving would strike other vehicles.
Contact was made with the OPP to assist in stopping the suspect vehicle. The suspect continued to drive in a dangerous manner by driving into oncoming lanes, not stopping at intersections, and nearly hitting other vehicles. Stop sticks were deployed and were successful at deflating the tires of the suspect vehicle, however, the vehicle continued to be driven.
Shortly after 5:00 am officers were able to block the area of Lasalle Road and Highway 40. The suspect drove his motor vehicle into the driver’s side of a Sarnia Police Service cruiser causing significant damage to both vehicles. No officer was injured. The vehicle was finally brought to a stop and the driver was taken into custody. Due to how the driver was acting he was initially taken to hospital for observation and later released back to police custody once cleared.
The accused, Edward Anthony Sands, 32 years of age, of Walpole Island, faces the following charges:
- Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
- Flight from a peace officer
- Operation while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Five counts failure to comply with a release order
Sands remains in custody awaiting a bail hearing.
Constable Giovanni Sottosanti
Media Officer
Tel: 519-344-8861 Ext 6168
Email: 168@police.sarnia.on.ca