A repeat drug-driver was told by a judge he could lose his liberty in the future if he fails to learn a “hard” lesson.
Craig Sinkinson (34), was brought to court after being stopped by a police officer as he drove a Mercedes on the A686 close to Edenhall on 1st October last year.
The officer followed Sinkinson into a layby intending to speak to the driver, who then set off, Carlisle Magistrates’ Court heard.
“Fortunately for the defendant he apparently had a change of mind and stopped the vehicle almost immediately when required to do so,” said prosecutor Lee Dacre.
A drug wipe proved positive for cocaine and Sinkinson, of Red Gables, Shap, was found to be over the legal limit for a breakdown product of the class A substance.
Sinkinson admitted drug-driving and the court heard he had previously been given a 23-month ban following a similar conviction.
Steven Marsh, giving mitigation, said Sinkinson hadn’t initially believed a police officer was behind his vehicle but had pulled over immediately when that became apparent.
Sinkinson, a joiner, was considering cycling to Tebay to meet a lift to his place of work in the knowledge that a lengthy and mandatory driving ban was heading his way.
He did not take drugs on a regular basis but had taken cocaine on that occasion after it was offered to him.
“He obviously regrets that now,” said Mr Marsh.
District Judge John Temperley imposed a £500 fine plus costs, and a three-year driving ban.
“It is a hard lesson to learn,” Mr Temperley told him. “You have to learn it. Otherwise you could find yourself off the road even longer and your liberty at stake.”
