Paddy Leonard, 24 May
When police received a report of a car in the middle of the Bay Road
with the driver apparently sleeping they found a Buncrana man with
alcohol taken Derry Magistrate's Court heard today.
Noel McLaughlin (24) of the Meadows in Buncrana, County Donegal
appeared charged with having excess alcohol on April 17.
The court heard that police received a report of the vehicle sitting in
the Bay Road with the lights on.
The reporting person said they had approached the vehicle and the
driver appeared to be sleeping.
Police attended and saw the vehicle and an evidential breath test
revealed a reading of 64mgs with 35mgs being the legal limit.
The defendant said that he had made a stupid decision.
Defence solicitor Paddy MacDermott said that his client had no record
and on the night had 'foolishly' responded to a report of something
wrong at a business premises.
He said that he had drink taken and promptly fell asleep.
The solicitor said that a driving ban would cause 'considerable
difficulties' for his client.
McLaughlin was disqualified for 12 months and fined £150.