Dangerous driving pilot all over road, reaching speeds of 140 km/h

James McLean was "in a dark place" as he sped along the Trans Canada Highway, north of Sault Ste. Marie, on a summer afternoon in 2021.

It was 5:10 p.m. on July 4, when Ontario Provincial Police received a report of possible impaired driver on Highway 17 in Goulais Township.

The driver was "all over the road," driving on the shoulder, passing vehicles, cutting one off, and hitting speeds of 140 km/h, a judge heard Friday.

McLean pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, when he appeared, via video from Cranbrook. B.C., in a Sault Ste. Marie courtroom.

"If that incident had not happened I might still be there," the 38-year-old pilot told Ontario Court Justice Heather Mendes.

 "I regret everything I have done," said McLean, who is originally from Ontario.

"I had hit rock bottom. I'm making efforts to change my life and I'm going to continue to do so."

Prosecutor Robert Skeggs and defence lawyer Shannon Darby jointly recommended a conditional discharge and a $2,500 donation to charity.

McLean has no prior criminal record, is from out of province, and is gainfully employed, the assistant Crown attorney said.

Since the incident, her client "has taken some serious steps towards rehabilitation and sobriety," the defence said.

McLean participated in a three-month program at Recovery Ranch, an addiction treatment facility, in B.C.

He then returned to Ontario where he was involved in another three-month program.

After a year of sobriety, he went back to Recovery Ranch as part of the support staff.

As well, McLean is involved in a five-year program for pilots which tracks sobriety, the court heard

"It's very intensive and involves regular screening," Darby said. "He sees a doctor once a month and attends AA programs."

When she imposed sentence, Mendes noted the steps he has taken are "significant and intensive" and are more than most people do.

"It demonstrates to the court you realize how you could change and are taking appropriate steps to move forward."

The judge granted the conditional discharge and McLean is on probation for one year.

During that time, he must not operate his vehicle without an ignition interlock device.

He also must take and complete a Back on Track educational driving program.

McLean is required to take any recommended counselling and to provide a $2,500 donation to the charity of his choice.