Jamie Kesterton, 36, of Smith’s Wood, Solihull, was caught driving under the influence after police observed him driving erratically and speeding along Chelmsley Road in Birmingham on March 27. Officers on a mobile patrol noticed his Skoda Fabia’s unusual behavior and pulled him over.
Upon stopping the vehicle, the officers detected a strong smell of alcohol on Kesterton’s breath and noticed his reddened eyes, prompting them to take him to the police station for further testing. There, breath analysis revealed Kesterton had 42 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, exceeding the legal limit by 7 micrograms (approximately 20 percent over).
Kesterton pleaded guilty at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court to driving a vehicle with an alcohol level above the legal limit. Prosecutor Ms. Pogorzelska stated, “The defendant was seen driving erratically and at excessive speed. When stopped, alcohol was evident on his breath and his eyes were reddened.”
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With no previous convictions for similar offenses, Kesterton was disqualified from driving for 12 months. This ban may be reduced to nine months if he undertakes and completes an approved drink-drive rehabilitation course. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £785 in total, encompassing a £500 fine, £200 victim surcharge, and £85 court costs.
The Magistrates’ chair warned Kesterton about the consequences of non-payment, saying, “If you fail to make those payments on time, bailiffs may be sent to recover outstanding amounts. It is crucial that you make the first payment within 28 days.”