Justin Barry Salter pleads guilty in Roma Magistrates Court to driving under the influence

A depressed man who ‘laughed’ when police caught him drink driving said he offended because he was lonely.

A depressed man who forgot to take his medication and got behind the wheel while drunk to find friends has landed in court.

Justin Barry Salter, 38, pleaded guilty in Roma Magistrates Court to driving under the influence of liquor or a drug.

Police prosecutor Mathew Donnelly said on April 29 patrolling police intercepted a Toyota Hilux on Bowen St, Roma for a random breath test.

The court was told the defendant was behind the wheel of the ute which was registered to a business owned by Salter.

When police approached the vehicle, the defendant tried getting out.

“Salter in the vehicle began to open the door but police advised the window was sufficient,” Mr Donnelly said.

“Prior to being prompted by police he stated ‘I’ll probably be over’ confirming he had been drinking prior to being intercepted.

“While laughing he stated that over an hour he had probably about eight or nine (drinks).”

Due to the instrument not working, police collected a blood sample which came back with a blood alcohol concentration reading of 0.173.

Defence lawyer Phillip Costello said his client simply forgot to take his medication for his depression diagnosis and was feeling lonely.

“Sometimes, and on the night in the question, he forgot to have his medication,” Mr Costello said.

“He was home and drinking some Jack Daniel’, then he felt quite lonely and depressed so he went to the pub to see if he can find some friends.

“He looked around and he didn’t see anyone he knew and so he went on his way home and that’s when he got picked up.

“He’s very embarrassed and remorseful for this.”

Deputy chief magistrate Stephen Courtney handed him an $800 fine referred to SPER and disqualified him from driving for six months.

No conviction was recorded.

Originally published as Justin Barry Salter pleads guilty in Roma Magistrates Court to driving under the influence