Chris Dorais - who is running for re-election as a trustee - was charged with driving with a blood alcohol level above .08 on March 8, Public Eye has exclusively learned. He has pleaded not guilty. Royal Canadian Mounted Police spokesperson Annie Linteau said Mr. Dorais' vehicle was stopped at 1:30 a.m. for excessive speeding while travelling westbound on Highway 1, west of Gaglardi Way. Const. Linteau said the officer who pulled Mr. Dorais over "formed the opinion that the person's ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired."
Mr. Dorais provided a breath sample and was released on a promise to appear in court. He was given an administrative driving prohibition and his vehicle was towed.
Reached yesterday, Mr. Dorais didn't have any comment on the incident except to say he's disputing the charge.
Mr. Dorais, a Hospital Employees' Union representative who was first elected to the school board in 2002, added, "I'm not hiding it. If it was impacting my job, then certainly I would have an obligation" - to let constituents know about the charge. "But it hasn't. And I don't see it ever impacting my job."
Mr. Dorais's trial is scheduled for May 11, 2009 - six months after North Vancouverites vote on his re-election. His first court appearance was on June 17.
I guess it's just not cops who get picked up and charged for impared driving.