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January 10.2026

2 Minutes Read

ICBC Road Tests Suspended Amid Downgraded Criminal Charges: What’s Next?

ICBC road tests suspended Fort St. John parking sign in bright sun.

Criminal Charges Alleviated Against Local Driving Instructor

In a dramatic turn of events, criminal harassment charges against David Rowsell, a former driving instructor in Fort St. John, B.C., have been downgraded significantly. Initially facing allegations that could have led to serious consequences, Rowsell now stands accused of three lesser counts that suggest victims feared he might cause them physical harm. This change has understandably raised eyebrows in the community, especially as it unfolds alongside the continued suspension of road tests at the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) in the area.

Impact of Road Test Suspensions

Since early December, ICBC has halted all road tests in Fort St. John, resulting in the cancellation of roughly 236 tests. The decision was made in light of ongoing safety concerns linked to the harassment investigation. Greg Harper, ICBC spokesperson, emphasized that the well-being of both employees and customers is paramount. “We are working to restore service as soon as it is safe to do so,” he commented, underscoring the urgency of the situation for local drivers.

Community Response and Ongoing Concerns

The ongoing uncertainty has left many in Fort St. John feeling frustrated and anxious. With driving tests suspended, residents are faced with limited alternatives, either having to travel to nearby Dawson Creek or wait for a resolution to the situation. As Rowsell himself insists on his innocence, claiming he is being punished for raising his own concerns against the corporation, the community is left to wonder not only about his fate but also the future of road safety and accessibility in the area.

A Growing Concern for the Public

This case has brought to light the broader implications of safety and accountability within driving schools in British Columbia. ICBC mandates that all driving schools conform to strict licensing standards. Rowsell’s operation, Elite Driver Training School, was suspended after failing to adhere to the Motor Vehicle Act regulations. Local residents are now more conscious of these regulations as they seek safe and legal driving instruction during a troubling time.

Looking Ahead: Resolving the Tension

As the court proceeds with a peace bond hearing instead of a traditional criminal trial, there remains a real sense of anxiety about road safety in Fort St. John. Community members hope for a swift resolution that allows road testing to resume, restoring normalcy and trust in local driving instruction. For now, the nearby town of Dawson Creek offers a glimmer of hope for those waiting to take their driving tests.

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