Impaired Driver Assaults Police Officer During Breathalyzer Test

A suspected impaired driver is facing multiple charges after allegedly assaulting a police officer during the administration of a breathalyzer test and subsequently fleeing the scene in his vehicle. The incident took place in the Champlain Street area of Orillia on December 16 at approximately 10:25 p.m.

According to the police, officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of a motor vehicle causing property damage. However, upon their arrival, the vehicle had already left the area. Later on, the same vehicle returned, and an officer engaged in a conversation with the driver.

During their interaction, the officer requested the driver to provide a breath sample using a screening device. Allegedly, the driver then assaulted the officer while they attempted to conduct the breathalyzer test.

Following the assault, the driver fled the immediate area in his vehicle. However, the police were able to locate both the vehicle and the suspect a short time later. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Orillia resident Tyler Harrington, was promptly arrested and taken into police custody.

As a result of the incident, Harrington is now facing seven charges. Furthermore, his driver’s license has been suspended for a period of 90 days.

Harrington is scheduled to appear in court in January to face the charges brought against him.