12 months ban for drug driver from Wisbech who was 16 times over limit

A Wisbech motorist who initially gave police the slip was found to be more than 16 times the drug- drive limit.

Aiden Cullen had in excess of 800 microgrammes per litre of blood of benzoylecgonine - a derivative of cocaine.

King’s Lynn Magistrates’ Court heard on Thursday the 26-year-old digger driver drew police attention due to the manner of his driving in a BMW at about 4pm on April 4. He accelerated away and the officers were unable to catch up.

Prosecutor Emma Wright told the court witnesses then reported a man running through gardens and when police caught Cullen he was out of breath and covered in scratches. He admitted he was the driver and was arrested after failing a drug wipe.

Cullen, of Chapnall Road, pleaded guilty to drug-driving and having no insurance.

Mitigating, Ruth Johnson said: “The ban is going to cause hardship for Mr Cullen and his partner. They’re due to welcome the arrival of their first child. His partner can drive but doesn’t drive. Being forced into driving, therefore, is not going to be met with any particular enthusiasm.”

Cullen was disqualified from driving for 12 months, fined £400 and told to pay £85 costs and £40 victim surcharge. There was no separate penalty for the insurance offence but his licence will be endorsed.