School bus driver allegedly used handheld device while transporting children: OPP

Central Hastings OPP have charged a school bus driver for allegedly driving while distracted.

According to an OPP news release, someone reported to police that a rural driver of a school bus in Stirling-Rawdon Township was transporting children while using a handheld device.

Police say they were provided with a video of the incident.

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After an investigation was conducted, OPP charged Crystal Bowers, 32, of Marmora Lake, on Feb. 6 with driving a motor vehicle on a highway while using a handheld wireless communication device.

The school bus company was also notified.

OPP would like to remind drivers that as of Jan. 1, 2019, penalties for distracted driving have increased in Ontario to:

• A $1,000 fine.
• Three demerit points for a first offence.
• A three-day licence suspension.

Newer drivers will receive the same fines but could receive longer licence suspensions as opposed to demerit points against their licence.