Daily Archives: 24 June 2016
Danny Cipriani in action for England against the Crusaders
England rugby star Danny Cipriani has been found guilty of drinking and driving after his Mercedes crashed into a minicab following a night out.
Westminster Magistrates’ Court heard the Wasps fly-half was so drunk his eyes were “glazed” after the smash on Imperial Road, Fulham on 1 June 2015.
The 28-year-old was found to be nearly twice the drink-drive limit.
He was ordered to pay a total of £7,620 in fines and costs and banned from driving for 18 months.
Cipriani had admitted drinking two espresso martinis and a glass of champagne less than an hour before he was arrested, but claimed he was “shocked” when he was told he was over the limit.
His lawyer had tried to get the charge dismissed, claiming there was not “sufficient” evidence as the breathalyser was not working properly.
But Chief Magistrate Howard Riddle said he was “satisfied” the machine had given a “correct reading”.