DRUNKEN DRIVER

Grey River Argus, 4 May 1937, Page 2

DRUNKEN DRIVER

(Per Press Association.)

DUNEDIN. May 3

Thad.ee Slavensky, a member of the Monte Carlo Russian Ballet, appeared at the Police Court this morning, jointly charged, in company with Maurice Kendrick Whale, of Lyttelton, with being intoxicated when in charge of a ear. The police stated that when the Russian accused was arrested at 6 p.m. yesterday, he was absolutely drunk. The other accused had come from the north. Meeting the Russian at an hotel, Whale hired a ear and took his new; friend for a drive. When outside the Caledonian Hotel they crashed into a pole, both being injured, requiring some attention at the hospital. The Russian was driving when the accident occurred, but Whale’s action showed ho was also drunk, since he asked his companion to take charge of the highpowered car, which was badly smashed..

Counsel pointed out that it was a disastrous drive for the Russian. His company left this morning to catch a vessel for Australia, and Slavensky would have to fly to Wellington to catch the boat. Moreover, he received chest injuries which would affect his work.

The Magistrate. Air Bundle, taking into consideration the fact that the Russian was leaving New Zealand, fined him £3. Whale was fined £lO, witnesses’ expenses, and his license was suspended for six months.