Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
10
Jan
Harrogate woman admits drink-driving with children in car
A Harrogate woman admitted to driving drunk while children were in the car.
The case was heard at Harrogate Magistrates Court yesterday (January 9).
The woman, who cannot be named to protect the identities of the children, pleaded guilty to drink-driving and being drunk in charge of a child under the age of seven.
Fiona Newcombe, prosecuting, told the court the woman was “stumbling” near a primary school at 3.15pm on December 3, 2024.
The court heard the defendant got into a car and drove away, before police were called to the area.
Ms Newcombe said two children were in the car at the time, both of whom were “distressed and crying”.
The woman, who is in her 40s, was arrested and a breath sample recorded 74 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of her breath. The legal limit is 35 microgrammes.
Brian Nuttney, defending, told the court the woman was co-operative with police and expressed remorse for her actions.
He said the defendant had drunk some wine whilst cooking before making the decision to get behind the wheel.
Mr Nuttney added:
The children were distressed as there were multiple police vans and a number of officers there at the time. They were distressed due to the police presence rather than her actions, but she admits she was over the limit and in charge of children.
The court heard the defendant realised she had been “leaning on alcohol from time to time”. Mr Nuttney said the woman is not an alcoholic but she has since attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to address this.
The woman was disqualified from driving for 20 months. This would be reduced if she completes a drink-driving course within a certain period of time.
She was also ordered to pay £505 in total, which comprises a £300 fine, £85 in prosecution costs and a £120 surcharge.
0