OPP APPREHEND FLEEING DRIVER WITH FIREARMS

(STURGEON FALLS, ON) – On November 29, 2019 at 1:55 a.m., while on patrol, members of the Nipissing West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) observed two suspicious vehicles parked in a residential area in Sturgeon Falls, Ontario.

Upon activating their emergency lights to investigate further, the pick-up truck and the sport utility vehicle (SUV) fled westbound on Levac Road. Officers terminated the pursuit shortly thereafter.

A short time later, the SUV was observed on Beaudry Road and officers subsequently conducted a tandem stop on Highway 17 in Verner, Ontario.

As a result of the investigation, Joseph ASTLES, age 23, from Garson was arrested and charged with the following:

Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code (CC);
Possession of a Firearm Contrary to Prohibition Order, contrary to section 117.01(1) of the CC;
Possession of Ammunition Contrary to Prohibition Order, contrary to section 117.01(1) of the CC; and
Flight from Peace Officer, contrary to section 320.17 of the CC.

The pick-up truck was not located. It is described as a Chevrolet or GMC and grey or beige in colour. Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding this incident, to contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122 or their nearest police authority.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit information online at www.sudburycrimestoppers.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

The investigation is continuing.

The accused was released on a Promise to Appear and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice on January 2, 2020 in Sturgeon Falls.