Driver up for assault

Amotorist allegedly kicked, scratched and spat at police after being caught driving at more than three times the legal limit. The

28-year-oldwas spotted by locals driving erratically on Portobello Rd, on Dunedin’sOtago Peninsula at

11am on Wednesday. The driver had been seen speeding through roadworks and tailgating motorists. Acting Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond said all those in the vehicle, including the driver, were drinking alcohol. Police stopped the vehicle shortly afterwards but trouble soon escalated and the driver allegedly began assaulting police officers, by ‘‘kicking, scratching and spitting at them,’’ Bond said. His breath alcohol readingwas 776 micrograms per litre of breath. He nowfaces three charges of assaulting police and wilful damage, and will appear in the Dunedin District Court next week. His licencewas suspended for 28 days.