A man was caught in charge of a vehicle whilst almost three times the limit after his wife expressed concerns for his safety.
The 49-year-old’s solicitor told court: “He has been plagued by bouts of depression and claims he had no intention of driving.”
Mark Henry McCorry, of Malcolmson Park, Magheralin, pleaded guilty to being in charge with excess alcohol at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Prosecution outlined that on December 14, at 6.30pm, police were contacted by the defendant’s concerned wife.
Officers attended McCorry’s home and called him on his mobile. During a conversation with the defendant he stated he was with a friend.
Police located McCorry in the car park of the Courthouse Bar on William Street, Lurgan.
The defendant had his keys in his possession in his vehicle and police suspected him of being unfit.
A preliminary breath test was conducted resulting in a fail. McCorry was subsequently arrested and taken into custody.
Whilst there, an evidential sample of breath was taken giving a reading of 101mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath.
Defence solicitor Gerry Drain stated: “Mr McCorry is a factory worker, he has been plagued by bouts of depression and claims he had no intention of driving.
“He appears before the court with a clear record.”
Prosecution pointed out that the defendant had in fact been handed a caution for a similar offence in the past.
District Judge Gregg McCourt said: “It concerns me that you have been cautioned for a similar offence in the past. This was a very high reading in breath also.”
McCorry was disqualified from driving for six months and was ordered to pay a fine of £180, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 12 weeks.
