A Royal Navy Petty Officer has appeared before magistrates – and will now also face discipline within the armed forces – after crashing into 2 cars whilst more than 3 times the drink-drive limit.
36-year-old Craig Smith from Dame Anthony’s Close in Binstead has been banned from the roads after pleading guilty to drink driving.
The court heard that on 14th August, at around 23:00, Police received a 999 call reporting that a vehicle had crashed into 2 parked cars on Wellington Road, Binstead. It was reported that the driver was refusing to get out of the vehicle.
Liz Miller, prosecuting, explained to the court that officers arrived on the scene to find a drunken Smith swaying, smelling of alcohol and slurring his words. He made admissions that he was drunk and that he was just driving to the local shop. The father-of-1 was subsequently arrested and taken into custody where he blew 119 – the legal limit being 35.
The Ford Fiesta that he crashed into has since been declared an insurance write-off, with the second vehicle – an Audi – also damaged and the owner facing a £250 excess. The Smiths state that they will be paying for any losses faced by third parties.
Smith, who has served in the Royal Navy for 16 years, offered a letter to the court which was read out by his solicitor, Barry Arnett. In the letter, Craig said the decision to drink and drive was inexcusable and that he was sorry for the distress caused.
Mr Arnett said that his client has admitted having issues with alcohol but is now seeking professional help through his employer.
Magistrates handed Smith a 28-month driving ban and made him subject to a 12-month community order with 140 hours of unpaid work. He was ordered to pay £85 costs with a £95 surcharge.
