The accused was charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drug contrary to section 253(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
The charge was amended to include impairment by drug and/or alcohol.
The Crown proceeded summarily.
The accused's ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired primarily by a combination of central nervous system depressant drugs and alcohol.
The accused had consumed beer and was taking multiple prescription medications including benzodiazepines.
The accused displayed clear signs of impairment at the scene and during police testing, including poor motor coordination, slurred speech, and inability to maintain balance.
A Drug Recognition Expert evaluated the accused and formed the opinion of impairment by central nervous system depressants and alcohol.
Toxicology analysis confirmed the presence of multiple benzodiazepines and other central nervous system depressants in the accused's urine sample.
The defence argued alternative explanations including tiredness, a previous back injury, and depression/suicidal state, but the court found these explanations did not create reasonable doubt.
A finding of guilt was registered.