Man loses licence after 'Good Samaritan' deed
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
A 'GOOD Samaritan' who offered to collect a stranded friend had been drinking a few hours before getting into his car, a court has heard.
Stephen McGimpsey, of Templepatrick Road in Ballyclare, was pulled over by police close to the Tesco store in Antrim at around 3.40am on August 12, where he admitted having consumed alcohol. He also subsequently failed a breath test.
A defence solicitor told the court of the 'bizarre circumstances' behind the case, stating that 23-year-old McGimpsey had been in bed for a number of hours before getting a call from a friend who was unable to get a taxi.
Despite having drunk a quantity of alcohol during the previous evening, he got into his car to collect his friend.
“His friend said there were some undesirables hanging around that night, and he was concerned for his safety," the solicitor said.
“The price for being a Good Samaritan is that he stands in the dock today. He accepts it was a crazy thing to do, but has great respect for the court and is sorry for his actions."
District Judge Mr Mullan acknowledged the good intentions of McGimpsey, but added: "It was rather foolish of you to get into your car."
She disqualified him from driving for 12 months, and fined him £350.
