Gregory James Barnes sentenced for Wellington Point drunken crash

A Redland grandfather has been sentenced after crashing his car into a wall, while paramedics worked for one hour to rescue him, after going for a spin while being nearly six times over the limit.

Gregory James Barnes sentenced for Wellington Point drunken crash

A Bayside grandfather has been sentenced after crashing his car over a roundabout and into a brick wall while driving nearly six times over the limit, with emergency services taking one hour to free him using a hydraulic rescue tool.

Gregory James Barnes was driving his car under the influence of alcohol at Hillcrest Rd in Wellington Point on July 23, 2023 at 1.25pm.

The court heard Barnes crashed into an Audi before continuing over the roundabout and crashing his car into a brick wall where he was lodged for one hour.

The 62-year-old pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol and to wearing his seatbelt incorrectly.

Police prosecutor Daniel Agresta said Barnes told police he did not recall the incident due to his level of intoxication.

“He was in a poor medical state and both his passenger doors were required to be removed,” Sergeant Agresta said.

“He transported to the Princess Alexandra Hospital and produced a blood alcohol reading of 0.277.

“There are many concerning factors including the time of day the incident occurred and his level of intoxication.

“There should be significant penalties, he needs to seek help and have something hanging over his head,” he said.

Sergeant Agresta asked for Barnes to be disqualified from driving for six months.

Barnes’ lawyer said Barnes was retired and was a grandfather.

“He is an alcoholic,” a lawyer said.

“His issues with alcohol and this incident has taught him a lot about the demons he has been battling.

“He is very remorseful and has his wife in court supporting him after 38 years of marriage.

“If a conviction is recorded it could limit his opportunity to volunteer at the NDIS in the future,” he said.

Magistrate Deborah Vasta said this event must have forced Barnes to learn about himself and to deal with things he has “stuck his head in the sand” about.

“Your family have seen you at your worst and are still here beside you with unconditional love,” Ms Vasta said.

Barnes was sentenced to serve 50 hours of community service and was disqualified from driving for 12 months.

No convictions were recorded.

Originally published as Gregory James Barnes sentenced for Wellington Point drunken crash