A Walsall man who was found nearly three times over the drink-drive limit in his damaged Tesla on the M6 has avoided a driving ban but lost his job as a result.
Court Appearance
Chad O'Loughlin, 28, of Bluebell Crescent, was discovered by police in the driver's seat of his stranded vehicle on the M6 J6 slip road on April 25. He had been on a night out in Birmingham and blew 85mcg in an evidential breath test - almost three times the legal limit of 35mcg.
O'Loughlin pleaded guilty to being in charge of a motor vehicle while above the alcohol limit at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, May 26. Despite the serious offence, he avoided a driving ban and was instead given ten points on his licence.
Prosecution Details
Prosecuting, Alisha Collins said officers found the Tesla stranded with damage to the vehicle. She told the court: "He blew 100mcg in the road side test and was subsequently arrested and taken into custody."
Defence Argument
Defending, solicitor Mr Kelly said O'Loughlin had lost his job as a result of the court case and described it as his 'first and last mistake'. He told magistrates: "He is unemployed because of this incident. He has had a very expensive experience in this case."
Sentence
O'Loughlin, who had no previous convictions, was also fined £197. Chair of the Magistrates Mr Morgan said they accepted he was of "previous good character" and acknowledged "the impact that it has had on your job and your life".
The incident occurred after a night out in Birmingham, and the defendant's Tesla was found damaged on the slip road. The court heard that O'Loughlin had been cooperative during the arrest and had shown remorse for his actions.
