Man ran off over fields to avoid being breathalysed by police
A Draperstown man, who ran off over fields to avoid giving a specimen of breath to the police, has been disqualified from driving for six months.
Connor Doherty (21) of Drumderg Cottages appeared before Magherafelt Magistrates Court this morning charged with failing to provide a specimen of breath, obstructing police and using a vehicle without tax. The court heard that at 6.20pm on February 5, police on mobile patrol of the Moneyneena Road, observed a white Seat Leon emerge from the carpark of licenced premises.
The vehicle travelled a short distance in front of the police vehicle and officers noticed that it crossed the white central reservation on two occasions. As the defendant’s vehicle entered Moneyneena village, the car turned into Drumderg Cottages and then pulled into a driveway. Officers observed the defendant exit the vehicle from the driver’s side and walk towards the back door of the property.
Police shouted at the defendant to stop, the court heard. When speaking to Doherty, the police officers detected a strong smell of intoxicating liquor from his breath. As the officer turned to get the intoxicalyser from the police vehicle, the defendant ran off and escaped over fields. Despite an extensive search of the local area, Doherty could not be located. Further enquiries revealed that the vehicle was not taxed. On February 25, the defendant attended Magherafelt Police Station and during interview he admitted driving the car on the day in question but denied having consumed alcohol. He told police that he had ran off because he had suffered an anxiety attack, the court heard.
Defence solicitor, Joe Mallon told the court that on the evening in question the defendant had called into the local pub to do the weekly lotto. Mr Mallon added: “The defendant admits driving the very short distance, some 500 yards, to his mother’s home after stopping in at the bar to do his weekly lotto- he did not have any alcohol. “He has a medical condition and is required to take very heavy medication, which explains why he had the panic attack,” added the solicitor.
Addressing the defendant during sentencing, District Judge Alan White said: “Because you ran off and failed to provide a sample of breath, we don’t know if you were drinking alcohol and in my view that merits a disqualification.” In addition to the period of disqualification, Doherty was fined £365. “Make sure you do not drive for the next six months,” warned Judge White.