Drunk driver's "unusual" explanation

Wednesday 01 June 2022

A man pleaded guilty to driving while under the influence of alcohol when he appeared in the Magistrate’s Court. But he pleaded not guilty to other driving-related charges.

Anthony Sinclair admitted that he was intoxicated while driving a motor vehicle in St Martin's on 10 May. A breathalyser test recorded 80mcg of alcohol in his breath, over double the legal limit.

But Sinclair denied driving without third party insurance and driving with a UK driver's licence on Guernsey roads. 

Pictured: Sinclair had consumed Dragon Soop, which contains 35mg of caffeine per 100ml and has an ABV of 7.5%. 

Defending Sinclair, Advocate Chris Green said the explanations for his client's actions could be considered "unusual". 

He said that Sinclair mistakenly considered a can of highly caffeinated and alcoholic beverage – Dragon Soop – to be non-alcoholic.  

Advocate Green also highlighted that the vehicle driven by Sinclair belonged to his employer.

Judge Graeme McKerrell bailed Sinclair with the condition that he does not attempt to drive or leave the island. 

Sinclair will appear for sentencing on 16 June.