A scientist who played a key role in developing modern roadside breathalyser technology has been banned from driving after being caught over the legal alcohol limit.
Dr Richard Lacey, 70, admitted to drink-driving following an incident in Talgarth, Powys, where his car struck a kerb, rendering it undriveable. Lacey, who helped design breathalyser devices used to detect alcohol levels in drivers, appeared at Llandrindod Wells Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty.
The court heard that Lacey had consumed alcohol before getting behind the wheel. He admitted to drinking “a couple of glasses of wine” and “a few pints” during lunch earlier in the day.
Police responding to the scene described Lacey as appearing “wobbly.” He was given a roadside breath test, which revealed a reading of 41 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
Lacey, representing himself, expressed regret for his actions, saying:
“I’ve really got nothing to say. I misjudged how much I’d drunk. I had a couple of glasses of wine with lunch and a few pints. I’m retired, so I don’t have any pressing engagements, and this has been a wake-up call for me.”
Magistrates handed Lacey a 13-month driving disqualification. The ban could be reduced by 13 weeks if he completes a drink-driving awareness course. He was also fined £600 and ordered to pay £150 in costs and a £60 victim surcharge.
The case has drawn attention due to Lacey’s contribution to breathalyser technology, which has been integral in enforcing drink-driving laws since the 1960s.
Breathalysers were first introduced in the UK in 1967 under Transport Minister Barbara Castle, as part of efforts to tackle drink-driving. Over the years, the devices have evolved with advancements from scientists, including Lacey, helping to make them more accurate and reliable.
The irony of Lacey’s conviction has sparked widespread discussion, highlighting the continued importance of breathalyser technology in preventing drink-driving incidents.
Following the ruling, Lacey declined to comment further but acknowledged the incident as a “personal failing” and urged others to learn from his mistake.
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Carl Millar is a highly respected and experienced drink driving solicitor who is the principal of Millars Solicitors.
Carl has been a specialist in road traffic law for many years and represents clients from all walks of life and all over the Country. He is well known for the dogged defending of his clients and robust cross examination of police officers and exert witnesses.
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