Double jeopardy: Wawa resident arrested twice in one night

WAWA – A Wawa resident is facing charges after being arrested by police twice in one night.

In the early hours this morning, shortly before 1 a.m., the Superior East OPP say they received a report of mischief on Third Avenue in Wawa. 

Following an investigation, a suspect was arrested and charged with mischief under $5,000.

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on April 8 in Wawa.

While in police custody, the accused showed signs of being impaired by alcohol, according to police.

Upon release, police say the accused was provided a courtesy ride home and warned by police not to drive, due to suspected impairment, the OPP said in a news release.

Shortly after 2 a.m., while conducting general patrol in Wawa, the OPP say they observed the accused from the earlier incident driving a vehicle on Mackey Street. 

Investigation confirmed the driver had consumed alcohol, police allege.

As a result, Marlee Panco, 34, of Wawa was arrested again and charged with:

• Operation while Impaired - alcohol and drugs
• Operation while Impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on the second set of charges also on April 8 in Wawa.

Panco was also issued a 90-day driver's licence suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment, police say.

None of the allegations have been tested in court and Panco is considered innocent unless proven guilty.