Sioux Lookout OPP lay charges following ATV incident

Tim Brody - Editor

A local resident has been charged by Sioux Lookout OPP following an incident which occurred on April 10.
According to police, on the afternoon of April 10, “Officers encountered an ATV travelling at a high rate of speed on Highway 664, east of Hudson. The same vehicle had recently been reported as trespassing in Lac Seul First Nation during a community lockdown.
“Officers attempted to stop the ATV but the driver fled police. The ATV was found abandoned on Sanders Road West and was returned to its owner. The driver was located a short time later, at which time they brandished a weapon at an officer then led police in a foot pursuit before being apprehended.”
Manuel Smith, 22, was charged following the incident with:
Dangerous Operation, contrary to Section 320.13 (1) of the Criminal Code,
Flight from Peace Officer, contrary to Section 320.17 of the Criminal Code,
Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, contrary to Section 88 of the Criminal Code
Police shared that additional charges may also apply under the Highway Traffic Act and Off-Road Vehicles Act.
Sioux Lookout OPP are urging community members to understand and practice safe all-terrain vehicle (ATV) operating procedures.
“For everyone's safety, police are stressing the importance of ATV operators knowing and following the rules of the road. For basic operation, the following riding requirements need to be met:
When operating an ATV along a roadway, on a trail system, or on Crown land, you are required to stop and identify when requested by a police or conservation officer, with a valid driver's license, as well as proof of registration and insurance for the motor vehicle. A rear license plate must be clearly displayed on the ATV.
50 km/h is the maximum speed an ATV can travel on roads with a posted speed limit over 50 km/h. 20 km/h is the maximum speed an ATV can travel on roads with posted speed limits of 50 km/h or less.
Drivers and passengers of ATVs must wear an approved motorcycle helmet with chinstrap fastened.”
Sioux Lookout OPP added, “Additional information about safe ATV operation can be found on the OPP website at www.opp.ca, as well as in the Smart Ride Safe Ride guide for safe and responsible riding, available online at www.mto.gov.on.ca/.”