The Orillia OPP have charged an individual with multiple offences following a collision investigation where the driver fled on foot.
On June 4, 2022, just before 3:30 p.m., Orillia OPP officers were dispatched to a single vehicle collision where a hydro pole was struck, and the vehicle landed on its roof at Line 7 in Oro-Medonte.
Police received information that the driver had fled into the bush attempting to flee the scene, and the vehicle was recently stolen from the City of Barrie along with the owner’s dog.
With the assistance of citizens in the area, the OPP Emergency Response Team and OPP Canine, the individual was located, hiding in the attic of a home a short distance away. Officers continued to scour the area searching for the stolen dog, locating it hidden in a nearby vehicle where it was placed by the individual.
As a result of the investigation, an individual was arrested and charged.
Melissa MATTINSON (age 43), of Barrie, was charged with:
· Break, Enter- place
· Theft over $5,000 -motor vehicle
· Theft under $5000
· Possession property obtained by crime (over $5000)
· Possession property obtained by crime (under $5000)
· Possession of a credit card
· Dangerous operation
· Fail to stop after accident
The accused was released on an Undertaking and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Orillia, on July 19, 2022.
Police returned the dog who appeared uninjured to its rightful owner a short time later.
