Man banned from driving after drunk riding e-scooter through Lewisham

A drunk uninsured driver with no licence who put a seat and lights on his e-scooter has been banned from driving.

Clinton Henry, of Boone Street, Lewisham, told cops he “did not know” he needed a licence to ride the vehicle. So he was charged with driving over the prescribed limit, not in accordance with a licence and without insurance.

Police officers spotted the 28-year-old travelling at speed on Molesworth Street, Lewisham just after midnight on Sunday, April 11.

The e-scooter pulled away from traffic lights and accelerated almost instantly to around 30mph before being stopped by police.

The rider admitted having no licence or insurance, claiming he didn’t know they were required for e-scooters.

He also refused to provide a roadside breath sample and was arrested.

Henry later provided a breath specimen containing 77 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath – the legal limit is 35 micrograms.

As well as being disqualified from driving for 17 months, he was fined £170 and ordered to pay £119 in costs and victim surcharge.

The scooter, which had no lights on and had a seat fitted, was also seized by police.

It was found to have a 5600W electric motor, capable of over 50mph and even had a horn and indicators fitted.

Mr Henry appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Monday, May 10, where he pleaded guilty to all charges.

Sergeant Steve Wilson, from the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “E-scooters remain illegal on London’s roads and pavements but we know there are still too many people failing to comply with the law.

“This case should serve as a reminder that an e-scooter is a motor vehicle, just like a car.

“If you are caught with one on a road or pavement, it could impact on your regular driving licence and lead to a fine of £300 and six penalty points.

“In this case, the rider was also over the legal limit for alcohol, creating further risk not only for himself but for other road users.

“Ensuring the safety of the roads is at the heart of everything we do and we will continue to proactively engage with e-scooter riders and enforce the law where necessary.”