Barrie police have charged a driver after a traffic stop revealed two children were not properly secured in the back seat. The incident occurred on July 9, 2026, when officers observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed in a residential area.
Traffic Stop Leads to Safety Violations
According to police, the vehicle was pulled over on Mapleview Drive East near Barrie. Upon approaching the car, officers noticed two young children in the back seat without seatbelts or child safety seats. The driver, a 34-year-old Barrie resident, was cited for speeding and failing to ensure child passengers were properly restrained.
“This is a serious concern because unrestrained children are at high risk of injury in a collision,” said Barrie Police Service Constable Sarah Thompson in a statement. “We urge all drivers to ensure children are secured in appropriate car seats or booster seats and that seatbelts are worn at all times.”
Penalties and Public Reminder
The driver faces a fine of $490 under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act for the child restraint violation, plus additional penalties for speeding. Police did not release the exact speed but noted it was significantly above the posted limit.
Barrie police remind the public that children under 40 pounds must be in a forward-facing child seat, and those under 80 pounds or under age eight must use a booster seat unless they are 4 feet 9 inches tall. Failure to comply can result in fines and demerit points.
