Avalon East District RCMP and Traffic Services East stop man suspected of drug-impaired driving

July 17, 2026 - Holyrood, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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Officers with Holyrood RCMP and RCMP Traffic Services East arrested a 57-year-old man on Thursday night during a traffic stop on the Avondale Access Road. The driver, who had open alcohol and cannabis in the vehicle, showed signs of impairment by drugs, and police are now investigating if impaired operation charges are appropriate. 

On July 16 at approximately 10:30 p.m. police conducting proactive patrols on Route 60 stopped a vehicle, and when officers approached the car, they observed an open container of alcohol inside. The driver also exhibited signs of impairment. 

A 57-year-old Avondale man was arrested for the open alcohol, and a search of the vehicle also resulted in the location and seizure of unsealed packages of cannabis. He was transported to the Holyrood detachment, where he was evaluated by a drug recognition expert and provided with a demand for a blood sample. Police are waiting on the results of laboratory testing to determine if additional charges of impaired operation are appropriate. 

The man was also issued tickets under the Liquor Control Act and Cannabis Control Act for having open alcohol and cannabis packaging in the car. 

The vehicle he was driving was seized and impounded by police, and his licence was suspended

The investigation continues, with additional charges possible. 

RCMP officers patrol roadways across Newfoundland and Labrador looking for impaired drivers, checking for seatbelts and ensuring vehicles and drivers are operating safely and with the appropriate documentation.

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