Drivers who refuse drink and drug tests could face jail.
That’s the warning after a man received a 12-week prison sentence for doing just that.
Joao Braga, aged 30, came to police attention on Sunday evening (26 October) after colliding with a parked car on Southey Street, Radford.
A spokesperson said:
‘We were already at the scene for an unrelated matter and watched as Braga attempted to squeeze past an illuminated police car that was partially blocking the road.
‘With insufficient room on either side, he collided at low speed with another parked vehicle and we immediately ordered him out of the car.
‘Due to the manner of his driving and his unsteady appearance, Braga was instructed to complete a roadside breath test.
‘After trying and failing to flee on foot, he then refused to complete a roadside drug test and declined to provide blood or urine samples in custody.
‘Braga then continued his uncooperative behaviour during interview, refusing to answer any of the questions put to him.
‘Braga, of Broadview Road, Lambeth, later pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and failing to cooperate with a preliminary test. He also admitted driving while disqualified and driving without insurance.
Appearing at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 28 October, he was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison and handed a further driving ban.
PC Tom Gregory said: “Drivers often try to avoid or sabotage drink and drug tests in the false belief that this will somehow get them off the hook.
“Unfortunately for them, it really doesn’t work like that—failing to provide a sample is an offence in its own right.
“As Braga has found out to his cost, the legal consequences can be extremely serious.
“With the festive season fast approaching, I hope this case serves as a warning to other drivers who may think of taking a similar approach at the roadside or in custody.”