(WALPOLE ISLAND FIRST NATION, ON) - An individual has been charged with impaired driving following a traffic stop.

On August 25, 2025, at approximately 6:30 pm, while conducting general patrol, a member of the Walpole Island Police Service observed a suspicious vehicle on Old Ferry Road, Walpole Island First Nation, where a traffic stop was subsequently initiated.  

The accused was taken into custody and transported to Lambton County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) for further testing. 

As a result of the investigation, Thomas SHIPMAN, 62-year-old of Walpole Island First Nation, was charged under the Criminal Code, Highway Traffic Act, and the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act with the following offences:

• Operation while impaired - alcohol and drugs
• Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)
• Fail to surrender permit for motor vehicle
• Fail to surrender insurance card

A 90-day Administrative Driver’s License Suspension (ADLS) and a seven-day vehicle impoundment was initiated as per statute.

The accused has been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice, Walpole Island First Nation on September 11, 2025.