Co Tyrone teenage motorist who made off into forest after crashing into a tree was more than twice the drink driving limit, court hears
A Co Tyrone teenager who crashed into a tree before making off into Drumcaine Forest near Stewartstown has lost his licence for 18 months.
Jamie McElhennon, aged 18, from Mountjoy Road, Stewartstown, also fined a total £575 with a £15 offender's levy for driving while having consumed excess alcohol, driving without insurance, failing to stop where an accident occurred, failing to remain at the scene, and having no licence.
Imposing the penalties, District Judge Francis Rafferty remarked the defendant was over twice the limit and his general behaviour was disgraceful.
Dungannon Magistrates Court heard that at aproximately 1.10am on December 22 last year, police were tasked to a report that the defendant was drunk and threatening to drive at Mountjoy Road.
Prosecuting counsel said the vehicle later crashed into a tree before McElhennon made off into Drumcairne Forest.
He said the defendant was shouting and screaming and police had to use PAVA spray to take him to the ground.
The lawyer said there was damage to the front and passenger side of the vehicle and a BT pole was also damaged in the collision.
McElhennon later provided an evidential specimen which showed an alcohol reading of 76 mcgs per 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35 mcgs.
Counsel added that the defendant provided a ‘no comment’ interview.
Defence solicitor Donal Heron said the defendant did not cover himself in glory on this night.
He said McElhennon is a young man who lived at home and worked as a chef.
Mr Heron said he has an ADHD problem and asked the court to give him maximum credit for an early plea.