A veteran Peel police officer is facing impaired driving charges after crashing into a light pole over the Labour Day long weekend.
Peel Regional Police said a vehicle had struck a pole near Courtney Park Drive and Hurontario Street in Mississauga around 1 a.m. on Sunday. The suspect vehicle had fled before police arrived on scene.
After a short investigation, Constable Wayne Parkins was arrested and charged with impaired driving, excess blood alcohol and failing to remain at the scene of an accident.
The 14-year veteran was suspended with pay, as outlined in the Ontario Police Services Act.
Peel Police Chief Jennifer Evans stated in a news release that she is “committed to ensuring transparency and maintaining the public’s confidence and trust when dealing with allegations of police officer misconduct”.
Parkins is scheduled to make his first appearance at a Brampton court on September 19.