Courts in Moray: Newly promoted serviceman given driving ban
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An RAF serviceman has been banned from the roads after he went out to celebrate being recently promoted.
Elgin Sheriff Court heard that Christiaan Fourie had gone into Lossiemouth on the evening of August 26 for a few drinks.
At 12.50am the following morning, two guards on duty at the entrance to RAF Lossiemouth base saw a vehicle approach them.
Fiscal depute Shamielah Ghafar told Elgin Sheriff Court that the pair identified Fourie as being behind the wheel.
The 20-year-old got out of the vehicle near the barricades.
Ms Ghafar said: "The accused was unsteady as he walked towards the witnesses."
The guards called the police.
A subsequent breath tests recorded a reading of 91 – more than four times the legal limit of 22.
Fourie's defence solicitor stated that his client's original plan had been to leave the car in Lossiemouth and walk back to the base.
The lawyer added: "When it came to the end of the night that didn't happen. It's a decision he bitterly regrets.
"He's aware this will be a black mark against him. It's been a salutary lesson."
Fourie, who works in logistic supplies, pleaded guilty to a charge of drink driving.
He was banned from the roads for 12 months by Sheriff Gordon Fleetwood who also imposed a £707 fine.
