DRUNK IN CHARGE.

Pahiatua Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 13371, 26 September 1936, Page 5

DRUNK IN CHARGE.

DRIVER GETS TWO MONTHS. Electric Telegraph—Press Association AUCKLAND, Last Night. The prompt action of two men in reporting the condition of a motorist, was praised by Mr. F. K. Hunt, S.M.. in the Police Court when a Dalmatian, James Ciprian, a wine salesman, aged 41 was charged with being intoxicated in charge of a motor-car. He pleaded not guilty. Burton Patrick Costello ana YY illiam Charles YYOotton said they were driving up Queen street when they observed accused’s car approaching them on the wrong side of the road. Costello , who was -driving, stopped against the kerb and the other ear grazed the rear o) the parked ear and then headed straight for a tramear which had to stop suddenly to avoid an accident. Accused drove into Grey’s Avenue and stopping, slumped over the wheel. When the witnesses approached him he walked away from the car into a Chinese fruit store and a constable was summoned. Constable Pollock said he found wooden cases of wine and a suitcase full of bottles as well as several empty bottles, in J:he back of {accused’s car. When "accused left the step lie was unsteady in his gait and when examined by a police doctor, a certificate was given that he was unfit to drive a car. Mr. Hart, for accused, said he had 1 leen instructed to plead not guilty. Accused had an extraordinary mode of speech and was very excitable. It was possible his condition would mislead anyone who did not know him. In evidence accused said his business required him to taste wines for sediment. He often had up to ten tastes a day. On Thursday afternoon he had about three. The Magistrate questioned accused about his movements and said; “You were so drunk that yon didn't know anything. You were fined £25 for a similar offence in 1933. This time vou will be sentenced to two months imprisonment Your license will ha cancelled and none will he issued to vou for t\\*o vears. In future von will I avo to do vor work with a wheelbarrow or someth ng else besides a car. The witnesses have to he thanked !<-• reporting the matter so promptly.”