E-scooter rider convicted of drink driving

Clinton Henry 28, of Boone Street, Lewisham, was charged with driving over the prescribed limit, not in accordance with a licence and without insurance after Metropolitan Police Service officers saw him travelling at speed on Molesworth Street, Lewisham soon after midnight on Sunday, April 11.

The e-scooter pulled away from traffic lights and accelerated almost instantly to around 30mph before being stopped by officers. The rider admitted having no licence or insurance, claiming he did not know they were required for e-scooters.

He also refused to provide a roadside breath sample and was arrested. He later provided a breath specimen containing 77mg of alcohol per 100ml of breath; the legal limit is 35mg.

As well as being disqualified from driving for 17 months, he was fined £170 and ordered to pay £119 in costs and victim surcharge.

The vehicle – which had no lights on and had been fitted with a seat – was also seized by police. It was found to have a 5600W electric motor, capable of more than 50mph, and even had a horn and indicators fitted.

Henry appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on May 10 where he pleaded guilty to all charges.

Sergeant Steve Wilson, from the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “E-scooters remain illegal on London’s roads and pavements but we know there are still too many people failing to comply with the law. This case should serve as a reminder that an e-scooter is a motor vehicle, just like a car. Ensuring the safety of the roads is at the heart of everything we do and we will continue to proactively engage with e-scooter riders and enforce the law where necessary.”