A man from Ardrishaig who was found slumped over his car steering wheel, fast asleep, would not co operate with the police who found him and woke him up.
Peter Konopka, of 2C Seaside House Glenburn Road, admitted failing to provide, without reasonable excuse, two specimens of breath to ascertain his ability to drive, or the portion of alcohol in his blood, when asked by police officers.
He also refused to provide the police with his name, date of birth, address and nationality when required by officers.
The 40-year-old came to the attention of police officers on patrol when they came across him, slumped over the steering wheel of his car, fast asleep, in a lay-by on the A83 near Tarbert on July 2 this year.
“The car was stationary, with the engine running and the lights on,” said procurator fiscal depute, Ewan Nicholson, at the November sitting of Campbeltown Sheriff Court.
“They knocked on the driver’s window and tried to get his attention but he did not move.”
When the officers opened the car door and managed to wake him Konopka was drowsy and smelled of alcohol.
“The officers formed the opinion he was under the influence of alcohol so he was arrested and taken to Lochgilphead Police Station where he refused to co operate.”
The officers found an interpreter in case Konopka was having difficulty understanding.
Defence agent John B McGeechan presented testimonial letters to the court from people supporting Konopka “which speak to his otherwise responsible behaviour”.
“Mr Konopka would not normally behave like that, he is embarrassed by what happened. He is in a very respected position in a professional occupation.”
The sheriff admonished Konopka for failing to give his details when ordered.
Sheriff Euan Cameron fined Konopka £600 for failing to provide the specimen and banned him from driving for 12 months, which can be reduced to nine if he successfully completes a drink-driving rehabilitation course at his own expense.
“There is no doubt that this is an extremely foolish action on your part; letters received from your employers, professional colleagues and former employers say this was out of character,” said the sheriff.