Drink-driver arrested after calling police for help
A man was arrested by police for drink driving after he called them for help.
Teesside Magistrates’ Court heard that Lucas Smith had contacted the police saying he was struggling with his mental health. When officers arrived on the scene he was outside the vehicle.
Michael Embleton, prosecuting said Smith, 25, who was living in Thornaby at the time, was driving his Fiat Punto on January 16 this year when he contacted the police. Concerned officers went to the area of Stockton where he was believed to be at.
The car was found in Thornaby Road. Mr Embleton said: “The vehicle was abandoned and the defendant was walking around. There was a smell of intoxicating liquor and the defendant was unsteady on his feet.”
He said Smith, who now lives in
Hallgarth Terrace, Ferryhill, tried to run off, but the officers caught him. He was then arrested for drink driving. Smith pleaded guilty to the offence.
Nick Ayres, defending, said: “Mr Smith was very candid with the officers. He was struggling with his mental health. His father had recently passed away and that had a huge impact on him.”
Mr Ayres said the defendant had not spoken out about his feelings to his family and friends and had begun to feel suicidal. However, he said he no longer feels that way after opening up about his problems.
He said: “He tells me he is at a positive point in his life at the moment. He said Smith is employed full-time as a cleaner.”
Smith was banned from driving for 12 months and ordered to pay a fine of £200, a £34 victim surcharge and £85 in costs.