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Drink driver caught over twice the limit had no licence or insurance

During his appearance he said he was 'ashamed and guilty'

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A man who was caught over twice the limit without a licence or insurance has been banned from driving for 16 months.

The 40-year-old, who represented himself in court, only spoke to say he was “ashamed and guilty”.

Aurimas Chlebanskas, of Coronation Street, Portadown, pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol, no driving licence and using a vehicle without insurance at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Prosecution outlined that on January 11, at 11.05pm, police observed a Volkwagen Polo on Castle Street, Portadown, being driven without lights on.

Officers watched as the car mounted a kerb before overtaking another vehicle on a blind bend.

Police approached the car when it came to a stop, however, the vehicle began rolling.

Despite being asked on several occasions, the driver refused to pull the handbrake and one officer had to reach in to do so.

A preliminary breath test was carried out resulting in a fail. The driver, who identified himself as the defendant, admitted to having no licence or insurance.

Once in custody, an evidential sample of breath was obtained which when tested gave a reading of 90mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath.

Chlebanskas, who represented himself at court, stated he was “ashamed and guilty”.

District Judge Stephen Keown said: “Due to the high reading, this is going to have to go over the minimum disqualification but you will be given credit for your guilty plea and the fact you have no record.”

Chlebanskas was disqualified from driving for 16 months and was ordered to pay a fine of £600, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 20 weeks.

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