Driving ban for man three times over limit

The rumpus erupted when David Robinson (42), of Brooklyn Road, Highbury Vale, Bulwell, was stopped for suspected drink-driving. He was later found to be more than three times over the legal limit.

Robinson was driving a black Vauxhall Astra car along Whitechapel Street in the Whitemoor area of Nottingham on Wednesday 11th December when he was followed and pulled over.

Nottingham Magistrates’ Court heard that Pc Matthew Daley established that the driver had “had a bit to drink” and placed him in the back of his police car.

However, as Robinson sat down, he went to open a can of Special Brew lager, said Sumaiya Khan, prosecuting.

“When Pc Daley opened the car door and asked for the can, Robinson refused,” continued Mrs Khan.

“He then hit out at the officer and caught him square in the face with either the can or his hand.

“It was a reckless assault and although Pc Daley sustained no pain or injuries, it did shock him. The contents of the can also soaked his hair and uniform.

“As Pc Daley tried to handcuff him, Robinson fell out of the car, face first to the floor.

“A struggle ensued when another officer got involved, and Robinson spat at them.

“At some point, he banged his head, and after continuing to spit at the officers he also wiped blood from his head injury all over the police car.”

Robinson, who is unemployed, pleaded guilty to charges of assaulting Pc Daley and of drink-driving.

His reading was 112 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath which, the court heard, was “way above the limit” of 35 microgrammes in 100 millilitres.

Finbarr Hennessy, defending, said Robinson could “not justify or minimise” what he had done.

“He accepts full responsibility, and would like to attend a drink-driving rehabilitation course, which may be beneficial to him,” said Mr Hennessy.

After reading a pre-sentence report, prepared by the probation service, the Bench sentenced Robinson to a 12-month community order.

During the 12 months, he must be supervised by the probation service, carry out 60 hours of unpaid work and go on a drink-driving course.

Robinson was also banned from driving for two years and ordered to pay court costs of £55, plus a victim surcharge of £60 and £30 compensation to Pc Daley.