Police in disbelief after drunk driver went through crash investigation site

A drunk driver who drove through a road closure and into a collision investigation site has been banned from getting behind the wheel for 12 months. Richard John Payne, from the Maltings in Yatton Keynell, admitted to driving under the influence when he made his way through the site on Tuesday, September 9.

Payne, 42, drove through a clearly marked closure in Yatton Keynell, through the crash investigation site, where he hit cones and a mannequin used as part of the reconstruction, Swindon Magistrates’ Court heard. A breath test showed him to be above the legal alcohol limit.

He was arrested on suspicion of driving a motor vehicle above the alcohol limit. He gave a roadside reading of 58 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath and later in custody, 44 micrograms, Wiltshire Police said. The legal limit is 35 micrograms.

Appearing at court on Wednesday, October 22, Payne was banned from driving for 12 months, with the opportunity to reduce the disqualification by three months by undergoing a rehabilitation course.

He was also fined £300, and ordered to pay a £120 surcharge and £85 court costs.

PC Paul Brewster from the Serious Collision Investigation Team said: “Having spent 18 years in policing, there is not a lot that surprises me, however this incident left me in total disbelief.

“Payne recklessly drove through a live reconstruction scene, placing officers at risk. I hope that he takes the time to reflect on his actions.”