Drink driver travelled to Cookstown ‘because McDonald’s in Dungannon was closed’

A man who failed to appear in court and became the subject of a bench warrant, arranged to hand himself over to police after reading about his non-attendance in a local newspaper.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Aug 2014, 07:20 BST
Drink driving chargeDrink driving charge
Drink driving charge

Poraic McKee (20) from Washingbay Road appeared at East Tyrone Magistrates Court where a defence solicitor explained he had overlooked the importance of the matter and admitted a charge of driving with excess alcohol. The court heard police responded to a report of a suspected drunk driver at 2am on July 14 in the car park of Asda, Cookstown.

On arrival McKee was observed in the driver’s seat and the keys were in the ignition. He was noted to show signs of intoxication.

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After caution he replied, “McDonald’s at Dungannon was closed, so what do you do?”

Whilst in custody McKee provided an evidential specimen of breath which returned a reading of 70mcg of alcohol – double the legal limit.

The defence said his client had been at a barbecue with friends where he took some drink then made the “foolish decision to drive”. Deputy District Judge Gerry Trainor imposed a £200 fine and disqualified driving for 12 months, to be reduced by three months on completion of a drink-driver course.

Related topics:McDonald'sASDA