A former driving instructor in Fort St. John, B.C., has seen criminal harassment charges downgraded, but the suspension of Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) road tests in the city continues. David Rowsell no longer faces criminal harassment allegations but now confronts three counts related to causing fear of personal injury to victims, including their partners or children. Instead of a criminal trial, a peace bond hearing is set to take place. Rowsell disputes the accusations, claiming retaliation for raising his concerns against the corporation.
Following incidents between January 2021 and December 2025 involving ICBC employees and other instructors, more than 200 tests were canceled in December due to the investigation. Despite the charge revision, ICBC is collaborating with law enforcement and has not provided a definite timeline for resuming road tests in Fort St. John. Safety is a top priority for ICBC, and road testing availability has been expanded in Dawson Creek in the interim.
ICBC revealed that 39 violation tickets were issued to Rowsell in December for multiple breaches of Motor Vehicle Act regulations. Rowsell lacks the necessary qualifications and licenses for his Elite Driver Training School, with his school license suspended in July 2024 and his instructor license in August 2024 due to violations. ICBC notified Rowsell in October that his licenses would not be renewed. All driving schools in British Columbia must be licensed by ICBC and adhere to the driving school Code of Conduct.
The charges against Rowsell are still pending, and his next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 15.