In a distressing incident in Erdington, Birmingham, a five-year-old boy alerted authorities when his mother fell asleep in their car after drinking a bottle of wine. The 36-year-old woman was found unconscious by police officers, who struggled to wake her. She subsequently failed a roadside breath test.
The call came at around 4 pm on October 7 last year, prompting officers to attend the scene. According to prosecutor Owen Beale, “She was asleep and had to be raised. It took some effort. She had the child with her, he’s five.”
The mother’s breath test showed 44 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35 micrograms. After being arrested and taken to Perry Barr police station, she refused to provide a further specimen for analysis.
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To protect the boy’s identity, the mother’s name has not been disclosed due to reporting restrictions. She pleaded guilty to charges of being drunk in charge of a child under seven and failing to provide a specimen for analysis.
At Birmingham Magistrates' Court, Alexandra Youster, defending, described the woman as having “reached rock bottom,” expressing overwhelming remorse for her actions. Social services have since become involved to assist the family.
District Judge Michelle Smith emphasized the gravity of the case, citing the very young age of the child. The mother was sentenced to an 18-month community order, which includes 30 days of rehabilitation activities, a six-month alcohol treatment requirement, and 12 mental health treatment sessions. Additionally, she received a two-year driving ban and was ordered to pay a £114 victim surcharge.
This case highlights the serious risks and consequences of being under the influence while responsible for young children.