OPP lay close to 300 charges in Wasaga Beach while preventing illegal car rally

Provincial police say they have laid close to 300 charges so far in the Wasaga Beach area as part of efforts to prevent illegal car rallies from taking place this long weekend.

The OPP says due to a significant increase in patrols and enforcement 97 charges were laid Friday in Wasaga Beach, Springwater and Clearview townships and an additional 160 charges were laid Saturday. Offences included speeding, licence plate violations, vehicle noise and muffler violations and driver’s licence suspensions.

Wasaga Beach officials say approximately 500 vehicles had gathered to take part in an illegal car rally Saturday night and while a small group of them were able to enter the town, they were quickly dispersed by police.

“The coordinated efforts of the municipality and OPP prevented a large number of car rally participants from entering our community,” said Fire Chief and Municipal Emergency Operations Centre Director Craig Williams.

Last week, an Ontario Superior Court judge granted Wasaga Beach’s request for an injunction against illegal car rallies. The ruling stated that promoting or attending this type of event would violate a recently passed bylaw and that provincial police are authorized to arrest anyone who ignores the court order.

Officials say the town, Wasaga Beach fire department, municipal law enforcement officers, Simcoe County Paramedics, Ontario Parks Wardens and OPP will continue to work together to ensure this remainder of the weekend, and the last days of summer in Wasaga Beach, continues to be safe and fun for everyone.

The beach is full in @WB_Media. All residents and visitors are enjoying this beautiful weather before the start of school. The #HurWOPP would like to thank all respectful and responsible residents & visitors for their part in making this an enjoyable and safe long weekend.^lg pic.twitter.com/Flud4LeWPg

— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) September 3, 2023