A 25-year-old man dressed as Batman has been disqualified from driving for a year after crashing his car into a telegraph pole while intoxicated and fleeing the scene in Tidworth, Wiltshire.
Lewis Blondrage, a resident of Aliwal Barracks, was involved in the collision on Meerut Road on the evening of November 19. The incident sparked a dramatic pursuit after Blondrage fled into the darkness, chased by concerned local residents.
Wiltshire Police reported that multiple teams, including police dogs, were deployed to apprehend the suspect. Blondrage was eventually captured, and a roadside breath test confirmed he was over the legal alcohol limit. He was subsequently taken into custody, where a blood sample further verified the offense.
Court Verdict and Sentencing
Appearing at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, Blondrage was found guilty of drink driving and failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision. The court handed him a 12-month driving disqualification and imposed a £600 fine.
Prosecutors highlighted the danger posed by Blondrage’s actions, emphasizing the potential harm to other road users and the disruption caused to the community.
Public Reaction and Police Statement
The bizarre nature of the case, particularly Blondrage’s choice of attire, has drawn significant public attention. Wiltshire Police released a statement urging drivers to consider the consequences of drink driving.
“Driving under the influence not only puts the offender at risk but also endangers everyone on the road,” a spokesperson said. “This case demonstrates the lengths officers will go to ensure those who break the law are held accountable.”
Details of the Incident
According to witnesses, Blondrage lost control of his vehicle, crashing into a telegraph pole and causing damage to local infrastructure. Rather than remaining at the scene, he attempted to escape, leading to a chaotic chase involving residents and law enforcement.
Police officers who apprehended Blondrage noted the unusual sight of a man dressed as the iconic superhero being taken into custody. However, they stressed that the lighthearted appearance did not diminish the seriousness of the offenses.
Community Impact
Local residents expressed relief that no one was injured during the incident but also voiced concerns about the rising issue of drink driving in the area. One witness described the scene as “surreal and alarming,” adding that Blondrage’s costume added an unusual twist to a dangerous situation.
The damaged telegraph pole has since been repaired, though residents noted temporary disruptions to telephone and internet services in the aftermath of the crash.
Legal and Safety Implications
The case underscores the importance of adherence to traffic laws, particularly during the holiday season when drink driving incidents tend to rise. Authorities have renewed calls for individuals to plan their journeys responsibly and avoid getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
Blondrage’s conviction serves as a stark reminder that the consequences of impaired driving extend beyond legal penalties, with potential ramifications for public safety and personal wellbeing.
