URGENT UPDATE: A school taxi driver has been banned and fined after being caught driving with more than four times the legal alcohol limit. Jonathan Drew, 58, from Upper Road, Little Cornard, was apprehended by police on February 12, 2023, while on a school run in Bury St Edmunds.
At approximately 3:40 PM, Drew drove his taxi towards a car park on Grove Road to pick up students. As he approached the entrance, he collided with another vehicle and failed to stop. The driver of the other car followed Drew inside to discuss the incident. Upon approaching Drew, the other driver detected a strong smell of alcohol and immediately contacted the police, blocking Drew’s exit.
When officers arrived, they conducted a breathalyzer test, revealing a staggering reading of 144 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath—more than four times the legal limit. Drew was arrested and taken to the Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre, where a subsequent test indicated a reading of 124 mg/100ml, roughly 3.5 times over the legal limit.
Drew was sentenced at Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on February 27, receiving a three-year driving ban, a fine of £7,500, and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2,000 plus £85 in costs. This severe penalty underscores the seriousness of his actions, especially given the potential risk to children he was responsible for transporting.
PC Wayne Sturman from Suffolk Police’s Commercial Vehicle Unit expressed his shock at the case, stating, “Drink-driving is incredibly dangerous, especially when you are that many times over the limit. But to then drive a taxi when you will be transporting children is reckless beyond belief.” He commended the quick actions of the other driver for preventing Drew from driving away.
The ramifications for Jonathan Drew are significant, as he has now lost his livelihood. The length of his ban and the hefty financial penalties imposed serve as a stark warning to other drivers about the severe consequences of drunk driving.
As this story continues to develop, it raises critical questions about public safety and the responsibilities of those who transport children. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected instances of impaired driving immediately.
