Cllr Phil Jordan, who was charged on 28th November 2016 for driving whilst exceeding the legal alcohol limit, appeared in court this morning (Tuesday).
The court heard that Cllr Jordan had been stopped by police at 11.45pm on 11th October on Whippingham Road. They had observed him ‘almost swerving into hedges’ before over correcting.
Over twice the legal limit
Cllr Jordan failed to give a roadside breath-test on three occasions, stating he was short of breath. Two further attempts at the police station also failed, so a blood test was taken.
The court heard this morning that he had 168 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 microgrammes of blood, 80 being the legal limit.
Error of judgment would “forever blacken his name”
His lawyer, Lee Peckham, told the court the Cllr Jordan had been in genuine difficulty and was not deliberately attempting to avoid providing breath specimens. He had pleaded guilty and apologised for “the mistake, a miscalculation and an error of judgement”.
It was heard that Cllr Jordan had a clean licence and no previous offences, cautions or warnings. He was ordered to pay £370 in fine, surcharge and costs and banned from driving for 20 months.
Considering his position
Following the case, Cllr Jordan said he was considering whether or not to stand down as a councillor. He represents Ryde North West.
Last week, in advance of the court case, Cllr Jordan stepped down as Executive member for PFI and Public Protection.
Source: IWCP
