A farmer from Wales has pleaded guilty to drink-driving at Swansea Magistrates Court after he was denied service at a local pub for being too drunk, then crashing his tractor into a nearby van.
Andrew James Duggins left the pub in his tractor before the crash just a few streets away and then fled the scene. Bar staff informed the police that he was driving while intoxicated, leading them to visit his home where he denied the accusations. CCTV footage of the crash, however, clearly showed him leaving the scene of the accident.
Lisa Jones said for the prosecution that on visiting Duggins’ home, police officers found him asleep “with a large number of cans of Fosters” in the room.
Duggins originally insisted that he had consumed the alcohol on his return home from work, and denied driving the tractor at any point on the day of the accident. The court heard, however, that he had been gathering silage that morning and stopped at the pub on his way home.
He pleaded guilty to driving while unfit through drink, driving without due care and attention, and failing to stop after an accident. The court also heard that Duggins had a previous conviction and had been banned for dangerous driving and drink-driving. Charges for driving while disqualified were dropped due to the prosecution not laying the charges in due time.
John Allchurch, representing the farmer, described his client as “troubled” with anxiety and depression, adding that he dealt with his mental health problems “inappropriately” using alcohol – up to 15 cans of Fosters every day. He went on to say that Duggins was now seeking professional help for his depression and alcohol use.
Originally planning to impose an immediate custodial sentence, District Judge Shoman Khan, said it was a very concerning incident and that the public had been put at risk. The report from the probation service, a character reference from a friend – who happens to be a police officer, and the steps taken to address alcohol issues “just about” persuaded the judge to suspend the sentence.
“You probably won’t realise how close you came to custody,” said District Judge Khan.
“If there is any other offending in the next 12 months you will go to prison.
“Be under no illusion – this is absolutely a last chance.”
The Crown Prosecution Service’s Kathryn Jones said it was lucky that no-one was injured. “Anyone who drives a motor vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs is putting not only themselves but other motorists and pedestrians at risk.
“It is fortunate that nobody was seriously injured as a result of Duggins’ actions.
“The CPS was able to piece together CCTV footage with witness accounts to present a strong, clear case which gave rise to early guilty pleas.”
Following the guilty plea for the drink-driving offences, Duggins was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for 12 months, and banned from driving for four years. He was also bound under curfew from 8pm to 5am for 16 weeks as well as complete a rehabilitation course.
About Carl Millar
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.
With a wealth of expertise in motoring law Carl is well placed to provide advice over the phone and deal with all road traffic matters in a calm and professional way.
Getting in contact with Carl and Millars Solicitors is really easy. You can call him FREE on 0800 999 5535, or click here to send a confidential message.
