Placentia RCMP stop suspended driver, impaired operation and uttering threats charges laid
Police conducted a traffic stop early Friday morning on Route 100 in Dunville. The 51-year-old suspended driver was arrested, found in possession of contraband tobacco and now faces a number of charges including impaired operation, uttering threats and drug possession.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., on Jan. 23, Placentia-Whitbourne District RCMP responded to a report of a possible impaired driver. A traffic stop was conducted after the vehicle failed to stop at a marked intersection leading onto Route 100. During the traffic stop, the driver exhibited signs of impairment and open alcohol was found in the vehicle.
The driver, Paul McFarlane, 51, was also operating his vehicle with a suspended license. He was arrested for impaired operation and transported to Placentia RCMP detachment where breath samples were provided that were above the legal limit. His vehicle was seized and impounded.
During his interaction with police, McFarlane uttered threats against the responding officers. He was held in police custody and is due to appear in court today. In addition to charges under the Excise Act, he is set to answer to the following charges:
- Impaired operation of a motor vehicle,
- Impaired operation of a motor vehicle while over 80mg%,
- Uttering threats,
- Possession of a controlled substance – cocaine,
- Failure to comply with a probation order.