timmins policeOn Saturday, January 30, 2016, Timmins Police Service Traffic officers, along with officers from the Ontario Provincial Police participated in a joint snowmobile patrol of trails in Timmins and surrounding area.

The purpose of the patrol was to ensure that users of local trails were complying with all regulations and laws under the Motorized Snow Vehicles Act (MSVA).

As a result of the initiative, a total of 17 charges were laid under the MSVA. Those charges included:

  • Failing to display evidence of a trail permit
  • Failing to have a trail permit
  • Having a modified exhaust
  • Failing to have insurance
  • Failing to provide evidence of insurance
  • Careless driving

During the snowmobile patrol, officers also encountered several snowmobilers who fled from police. In one incident, Joé DESROCHERS, 28, Stephane PICHE, 27, both of Timmins were charged with Failing to stop for police (MSVA, Sec. 17.1(1)).

In another incident, police are still seeking a snowmobiler who fled. The snowmobile is described as a 2009 or newer Arctic Cat, with a black cab and black body, 600cc or bigger, two-stroke engine with an after-market exhaust and a yellow “Royal Distributing” sticker on the left hand side of the cab. The driver of the snowmobile was wearing an orange snowboard-type jacket and motocross-style helmet.

Police are asking anyone who may have any information on who this snowmobiler may be to contact 705-264-1201 or Crime Stoppers at 705-268-8477.

The Timmins Police Service advises all riders that failing to stop for police on snowmobiles can result in charges, and in some cases upon conviction offenders may see a minimum $5000 fine, mandatory 5-year license suspension, and even possible jail time.

Riders are advised to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations under the Motorized Snow Vehicles Act, and to ensure compliance with the Act to help provide a safe and enjoyable winter for all who use the trails.