Driver refused to give breath sample after crash in Workington due to 'mistrust of police'

David Weir, 59, was driving in Workington on May 13 when he collided with an island then a road sign, which pushed his car into a parked vehicle, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said police were called to the road traffic collision and Weir had refused to provide a sample of breath.

Weir, who was taken to hospital before going to custody, had then refused to provide a breath sample at the police station.

Ms Fee told the court that Weir was 'slurring his words' and his 'eyes were glazed'.

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When asked if there was any reason why he could not provide a breath sample, Weir had replied, “yes, as a matter of principle”.

Mike Woolaghan, defending, said Weir had a “limited recollection of events” but remembered getting into the vehicle and then having a “blacking out episode”. He said the defendant had no recollection of the crash.

Mr Woolaghan said Weir had refused to give a sample of breath because of experiences with police in Scotland and he had a “generalised mistrust of police”.

“He recognises he hasn’t done himself any favours. It’s fair to say he accepts his decision was flawed. It was foolish and one he regrets. He recognises it was not something in his best interests.”

Mr Woolaghan said Weir suffers with severe anxiety and depression and is a carer for his elderly parents.

Weir, of Sewells Row, Crosby Villa, Maryport, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis at a hearing on July 6. He was sentenced for the offence yesterday.

Magistrates banned him from driving for 32 months and imposed a two-year community order.

Weir must complete 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £95 victim surcharge.

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