A Townsville man has been hit with a significant fine and a driving ban after he was caught behind the wheel with a blood alcohol concentration more than three times the legal limit.
Court hears details of late-night traffic stop
Simon Scott Jansen, 52, appeared in the Townsville Magistrates Court this week, where he pleaded guilty to one charge of drink driving. The court was told that police intercepted Jansen's vehicle on Sturt Street in Townsville on the evening of February 23, 2024.
Officers conducted a roadside breath test, which Jansen failed. He was subsequently taken to the Townsville police station for a more precise breath analysis. This test revealed a reading of 0.171, which is classified as high-range drink driving and is well over three times the legal limit of 0.05 for an open licence holder.
Magistrate hands down sentence and warning
In sentencing, the magistrate took into account Jansen's early plea of guilty. The court heard that Jansen was otherwise of good character. Despite this, the serious nature of the offence warranted a strong penalty.
Magistrate Ross Mack convicted and fined Jansen $1500. In addition to the financial penalty, Jansen was disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver's licence for a period of six months.
The conviction will be recorded on his traffic history. The magistrate emphasised the dangers of driving with such a high level of alcohol in one's system, not only to the driver but to all other road users.
The consequences of high-range drink driving
This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious legal repercussions for drink driving in Queensland. A high-range PCA (Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol) offence carries heavy penalties, which can include substantial fines, lengthy licence disqualifications, and even potential imprisonment for repeat offenders or in cases involving aggravating circumstances.
The Townsville Magistrates Court regularly deals with such matters, reflecting the ongoing community issue of drink driving. Authorities continue to conduct random breath testing operations across the region in an effort to deter motorists and improve road safety.
For Jansen, the conviction means a significant financial setback and the inconvenience of losing his licence for half a year, a consequence that will likely impact his daily life and mobility.
