A Hartlepool man with a history of drink-driving offences has been banned from driving for five years after being caught over the legal alcohol limit twice within a span of six and a half weeks.
Robert Harrison, 58, was first apprehended on 18 October when paramedics were alerted by a concerned citizen to a man asleep in his car on Clarence Road. Upon arrival, Harrison had already driven away, swerving on the road and hitting the kerb multiple times. Police located him shortly thereafter at the junction of Park Road and the A689, where he exhibited signs of intoxication, including unsteady footing, slurred speech, and glazed eyes. A breathalyser test revealed he had 94 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, nearly three times the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
The second incident occurred on 4 December on Marina Way, where Harrison collided with the rear of a Royal Mail van. Officers at the scene noted a strong smell of alcohol and slurred speech. A subsequent breath test indicated a level of 122 micrograms per 100 millilitres, over three times the legal limit.
In court, it was disclosed that five of Harrison’s ten prior convictions were related to drink-driving. His defence solicitor, Tyler Plunkett, stated, “He is alcohol dependent. It is potentially because of a deeper rooted issue.” Plunkett further mentioned that Harrison suffers from various physical ailments, leading to self-isolation due to frequent illness.
Harrison pleaded guilty to both charges of drink-driving. In addition to the five-year driving disqualification, he was sentenced to a 24-month community order, which includes a 12-month alcohol treatment programme, a 12-month mental health treatment plan, and 20 rehabilitation activity days.
This case underscores the persistent challenges posed by repeat drink-driving offenders and the critical need for comprehensive rehabilitation measures to address underlying issues contributing to such dangerous behaviour.
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.
