A Killyea man who drove whilst under the influence of a “unprescribed cocktail of medication” has been handed a 12 month disqualification.
Sentencing the 22-year-old, the deputy district judge commented that this was a “worrying detection” but accepted the defendant appeared to acknowledge he had put others at risk.
Adam McShane, of Dernasigh Road, pleaded guilty to driving when unfit through drink or drugs at Armagh Magistrates’ Court, sitting at Newry, on Tuesday via videolink from his solicitor’s office.
Prosecution outlined that on December 5, at 11.15pm, police attention was drawn to a Volkswgagen Passat being driven slowly by the defendant on the Loughgall Road, Armagh.
Upon speaking to McShane, officers noted that he had glazed eyes, spoke with slurred speech and appeared to be nervous.
The defendant also could not account for a blue substance around his mouth. Due to no smell of alcohol being detected, an impairment test was conducted which found McShane to be unfit.
At 12.15am, the defendant was arrested and taken to Dungannon Custody Suite, and whilst there a forensic medical officer obtained a sample of his blood for testing.
Upon analysis, McShane was found to have a number of substances in his system including cocaine and THC.
Defence barrister Scott McWhinney stated that his client consumed the “unprescribed cocktail of medication” after receiving distressing news.
He commented: “He understands that it is extremely serious to be driving whilst under the influence of any illicit substances.
“He is an electrician and the loss of his licence is going to have an impact. He is a young man with a clear record. It was a plea at the first opportunity and this would appear completely out of character.”
Deputy District Judge Laura Ivers commented that this was a “worrying detection” although accepted that McShane appeared to acknowledge he had put others at risk.
The defendant was disqualified from driving for a period of 12 months and was ordered to pay a fine of £200, along with the offender’s levy of £15.
