Two local residents are facing multiple charges after an impaired driving investigation in Pembroke led to the seizure of suspected cocaine and the recovery of a stolen vehicle. On February 25, at around 11:15 a.m., members of the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked on Esther Street.
The vehicle was found to have been stolen from a rental car agency. The driver, 30-year-old Caitlin Dennis from Chalk River, was arrested, and a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) conducted tests at the detachment. Officers also seized suspected cocaine and items related to drug trafficking.
As a result, Dennis has been charged with impaired driving by drugs, possession of cocaine for trafficking, and possession of stolen property over $5,000. Her driver’s license was suspended for 90 days, and she is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Pembroke on March 10.
The vehicle passenger, 38-year-old Brandon Rousseau from Deep River, was also arrested and charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, possession of cocaine for trafficking, and failure to comply with probation. Rousseau was held for a bail hearing and remains in custody until his next appearance in court on March 6.
The OPP continues to investigate and reminds the public to report any suspicious activity to help keep communities safe.
(Written by: Emma Butler)