FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Three Drivers Receive Immediate Roadside Prohibitions in Nelson
The Nelson Police Department continues to conduct proactive impaired driving enforcement throughout the community.
Between May 29 and May 31, 2026, Nelson Police officers conducted three separate impaired driving investigations that resulted in Immediate Roadside Prohibitions (IRPs).
• A 17-year-old male Nelson resident was stopped in the 100 block of Vernon Street during the early morning hours of May 31 after officers observed a vehicle being operated without headlights. The driver provided two breath samples that resulted in “FAIL” readings on approved screening devices. The driver received a 90-day driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days.
• An 18-year-old female South Slocan resident was stopped on Hall Street during the early morning hours of May 30 after officers observed a traffic violation. The driver provided a breath sample that resulted in a “WARN” reading. The driver received a 3-day driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 3 days.
• A 71-year-old male Winlaw resident was stopped on Silica Street on May 29 following a complaint from a member of the public. The driver provided two breath samples that both resulted in “FAIL” readings. The driver received a 90-day driving prohibition and the vehicle was impounded for 30 days.
The Nelson Police Department reminds motorists that impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of serious injury and fatal collisions in British Columbia. Officers will continue conducting roadside enforcement and screening throughout the year to help keep our roads safe.
Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is encouraged to call 911 if the behaviour presents an immediate danger or report the information to local police as soon as it is safe to do so.
Update to January 19, 2026 Media Release File NP2026-125
Health Canada laboratory analysis has confirmed that substances seized during a January 11, 2026 traffic stop in Nelson included cocaine, MDMA, LSD, ketamine, and benzodiazepines.
The investigation involved a 29-year-old male resident of Slocan, BC, who was arrested following a traffic stop conducted as part of ongoing impaired driving enforcement. Officers subsequently seized significant quantities of controlled substances, drug trafficking paraphernalia, and more than $4,000 in Canadian currency.
As part of the investigation, the vehicle involved was seized under the Civil Forfeiture Office (CFO) process.
The investigation remains before the courts. Charges related to Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and impaired driving have been recommended.
Repeat Property Offender Facing Additional Charges
The Nelson Police Department has laid charges against Daniel DINUNZIO, a 36-year-old Nelson resident, following an investigation into a break and enter at the Kootenay Co-op.
On April 11, 2026, police received a report that an individual had unlawfully entered the business during the early morning hours and stolen merchandise. Surveillance footage captured the suspect gaining entry to the store before leaving with several items.
The suspect was identified as Daniel DINUNZIO by investigators and witnesses familiar with him through previous interactions.
At the time of the offence, DINUNZIO was subject to court-ordered conditions prohibiting him from attending several businesses in Nelson, including the Kootenay Co-op.
Police have laid charges of:
• Break and Enter
Additional charges related to breaches of court-ordered conditions remain under review.
DINUNZIO is currently in custody on unrelated matters. An unendorsed warrant has been issued in relation to these offences and will be executed while he remains in custody.
DINUNZIO is a designated Chronic Property Offender Intervention Initiative (CPOII) offender.
Between May 24 and May 30, 2026, the Nelson Police Department responded to 179 calls for service within the City of Nelson. Calls included proactive patrol activities, traffic enforcement, property crime investigations, public safety concerns, and requests for police assistance from members of the community.
Media Contact:
Nelson Police Department