Probationary Constable Terence Maruariki conducts a ‘pretend” breath test on fellow Probationary Constable Grace Stusky. Both work in the Front-line Division. 16061041

An ambulance driver at Rarotonga Hospital has been disqualified from driving after smashing into a power pole near the Empire Cinema.

A breathalyser test showed Edwin Nicholas had consumed 1010 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath – double the limit of 400 mcg.

The 50-year-old was charged with dangerous driving and excess breath alcohol, fined $500, and ordered to pay court costs.

Justices of the Peace Bernice Manarangi, Carmen Temata and Georgina Williams imposed a 12-month disqualification; the same disqualification handed down to an airport fire engine driver convicted of drink-driving a month ago.

Defence lawyer Norman George told the court that Edwin Nicholas was a good father to his 13 children, and while some had moved on, he continued to look after five of them.

It was unfortunate the defendant had lost his driving licence, George said, but he had managed to get alternative work at the Ministry of Health as an assistant in the ambulance department.

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The $500 fine also reflected Nicholas’ conviction on charges of assault on a female and common assault.

On December 9 last year, a commotion at the Islander Hotel was reported to police. Itwas reported that Nicholas had punched a man and also his partner. He also threatened to kill them.

Defence counsel Norman George said his client admitted to the charges of assault but not threatening to kill.

He said it was a result of consuming alcohol, there was no major harm done.

Justice Temata said the court did not condone assault but believed Nicholas needed to be given a chance. He was therefore ordered to come up for sentencing if called upon in the next six months.