Blake Ellis/Local Journalism Initiative

A St. Clair Township man says he likes his new sober life and plans to stick to it.
At least, that’s what he told Justice Deborah Austin in Sarnia Court March 9.
Lambton OPP stopped Jeffrey McClinton’s vehicle in St. Clair Township on Sept. 20, 2020. A slight odor of alcohol was noticed. Police received a call from a family member who was concerned about McClinton’s well being, especially because of his alcoholism and his access to firearms. There was no threat to the general public said Assistant Crown Attorney Ryan Iaquinta.
McClinton plead guilty to careless driving. He was sentence to two years probation to include counselling for his alcohol issues. “I have been sober since Sept. 20, 2020 and I like this” McClinton said. “I like my new life and I plan to stick to it.” 
“This may be the silver lining to these matters coming before the court,” said Judge Austin urging him to stay on a healthy path. He was also fined $2,000 and banned from owing weapons for four years.