Car keys removed by member of the public

Eamon Rocks (59), of Chesney Crescent, Portglenone, was also fined £250 with a £15 offender levy for driving while having consumed excess alcohol at Ballymacombs Road.

Magherafelt Magistrates Court was told on Wednesday that at about 9pm on July 9, police were tasked to a report made by a girl and her brother of stopping a suspect drunk driver at Fisherman’s Walk.

Prosecution counsel said the girl told police that they were driving down the narrow road when they were met by the defendant’s vehicle. She said the driver’s manoeuvre pulling over to let them pass suggested that he could have drink taken.

Counsel said the girl’s brother got out and went over to speak to the defendant and he took the keys of the vehicle to stop him driving. She added that 15 minutes later Rocks got out and made off on foot.

He was later apprehended by police and taken to Antrim station, where he provided an alcohol reading of 103mgs in breath.

Defence solicitor Stewart Ballentine said the defendant has been driving for 35 years with a clear record.

Mr Ballentine said the defendant worked for the education authorities and had been drinking as he found it difficult having to work remotely.

He said he had gone with his dog to the beauty spot for a walk, and pulled in to allow the other car to pass.

Mr Ballentine said Rocks thought the other party was going to drive his car home, and he walked home and was picked up by the police.