East Algoma OPP – RIDE Check leads to Drug Charges for Suspended Driver

On the evening of Friday, August 7, 2026, members of the East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E.) checks in the Town of Thessalon.

At approximately 11:45 p.m., a green SUV entered the R.I.D.E. checkpoint on Lakeside Drive. During the investigation, officers determined that the driver was operating the vehicle while under suspension. Police also found that the vehicle was not insured and was displaying unauthorized licence plates.

As a result of the investigation, officers located and seized approximately 11 grams of suspected methamphetamine.

The driver was arrested and the vehicle was subsequently towed.

Christopher GARVEY, 46 years old from Thessalon was charged with:

• Possession of a schedule I substance-methamphetamine
• Drive while under suspension
• Owner operate a motor vehicle without insurance
• Use plate not authorized for vehicle
• Operate unsafe vehicle

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on October 14, 2026.

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OPP

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provide policing services throughout Ontario. Our officers are responsible for policing over one million square kilometres of land and waterways. They provide frontline policing services to more than 320 Ontario municipalities and patrol over 126,000 kilometres of provincial roadways.

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