Driver’s breath test blunder

A van driver claimed he was“too high”to give cops a sample of his breath.

Kieran Docherty, 34, was stopped at the wheel of his white Ford Transit at Hurlet Road, in Paisley, following a tip off to police.

The town’s sheriff court heard that, when Docherty was pulled over, he deliberately failed to puff into the machine and was promptly arrested on December 10 last year.

Procurator fiscal depute Michael Cunningham said:“At around 9pm , a call was received from a member of the public regarding a white Ford Transit motor vehicle.

“Police witnesses observed this vehicle shortly after travelling on lane two of Hurlet Road in Paisley.

“Police had reason to stop the vehicle and indicated for the driver to stop.

“Officers approached the vehicle, spoke to the accused and informed him he was required to provide a breath sample.

“The accused then made several attempts, but could not do this.”

The court heard Docherty made“short, sharp noises”, but even after he was given several opportunities, he refused to hand over the sample.

He was arrested and taken to Greenock police station where he again refused to provide two specimens of breath.

The fiscal added:“He was again informed he was required to provide two specimens for analysis, but he refused to have the test.

“He replied,‘I am too high with my own family s***’.”

He was then cautioned and charged.

Yesterday, Docherty of Pollok, Glasgow, appeared in the dock before Sheriff Mark Thorley where he pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to give breath specimens.

A defence agent told the court her client was “dealing with family issues”at the time of his arrest.

She added he had not offended since the incident and realised he faced an automatic disqualification.

Sheriff Thorley adjourned sentencing to call for background reports and reminded him he was banned from the roads in the meantime.

Docherty was ordered back to court on July 9 when he will be handed his punishment.