A 49-year-old driver who was caught slumped in his car and refused a drug test has been handed a hefty driving ban and a suspended jail sentence.
Slumped Driver Sparks Panic in Chelmsford Tesco Car Park
Robert Ames was spotted unresponsive behind the wheel of his Vauxhall Astra in a Tesco car park on Princes Road, Chelmsford. Staff raised the alarm after Ames struggled to control his vehicle, even accidentally hitting a member of staff on 31 March 2025.
Refusal to Provide Drug Sample Lands Him in Hot Water
When police arrived, they arrested Ames on suspicion of drug driving. At Chelmsford custody, he refused to provide a drug sample – a criminal offence in itself. Ames pleaded guilty at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 1 April 2025.
Hefty Penalty for Dodging Drug Test
- 50-month driving ban (can be cut if he completes an approved course)
- 12-week suspended jail sentence
- Over £700 in fines and court costs
- Rehabilitation order with supervision
“Refusing to provide a specimen is not acceptable and is an offence in its own right,” said Mr Adam Pipe, Head of Roads Policing. “It prevents officers from obtaining crucial evidence and undermines efforts to keep our roads safe.”
Ames now faces a tough road to redemption after risking lives and breaking the law.
