Court is told of police's 'pre-emptive sting' on Ballymena motorist's BMW
Police carried out a "pre-emptive sting" to stop a motorist in a BMW which had been swerving on a major road.
The 24-year-old defendant committed offences on April 12 this year. A prosecutor told Antrim Magistrates Court, sitting in Ballymena, that around 12.30am police received a report regarding an incident at an address.
Police later spotted the defendant driving at excessive speed and swerving between lanes and a "pre-emptive sting was carried out on the vehicle". His speech was slurred and officers detected a strong smell of alcohol.
The defendant failed to provide a preliminary breath test or an evidential breath test. He had been a disqualified driver at the time.
Ryan McMullan, with an address listed as Drumtara in Ballymena, has pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified; failing to provide samples; and absence of insurance.
According to the charge sheet the charges relate to the Lisnevenagh Road dual-carriageway between Ballymena and Antrim.
A defence barrister said the incident had been a "serious wake-up call" to the defendant who had alcohol issues. The court was told the defendant had a bad record.
District Judge Nigel Broderick said it had been a "very serious offence" as not only was McMullan under the influence of some substance but he had been speeding and swerving.
"It is just but for the grace of God that you didn't cause an accident" which could have resulted in "serious if not fatal injuries".
As a "direct alternative" to prison he handed down an Enhanced Combination Order of 18 months Probation and 100 hours of Community Service. McMullan was also banned from driving for four years.