Ottawa officer charged with impaired driving
An Ottawa Police Service constable has been charged with impaired driving-related offences following an off-duty incident on June 27. Mathieu Boucher, 41, faces two charges: operation while impaired and operation while impaired with a blood alcohol concentration over 80 mg per 100 mL of blood.
According to police, the incident occurred while Boucher was off duty. He was arrested and later released pending a court appearance. The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) confirmed the charges in a statement on Wednesday.
Reassigned to administrative duties
Despite the charges, Boucher remains an active member of the force. However, he has been removed from front-line patrol and reassigned to administrative duties. OPS stated, “The officer remains on active duty but has been reassigned to administrative duties and is not serving in a front line patrol capacity.”
This decision allows the officer to continue working while the legal process unfolds, but in a role that limits public interaction and operational responsibilities.
OPS statement on conduct
The Ottawa Police Service emphasized its commitment to high standards of conduct. “The OPS holds all officers to a high standard of conduct, both on and off duty, and expects their actions to reflect the trust and values of the community we serve,” the police statement read.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by police services to address impaired driving among officers, a serious offence that undermines public trust. Boucher's next court date has not yet been announced.
