Telford, UK (November 7, 2024) – A man who went to a Telford police station to report a road rage incident ended up in court for driving under the influence of cannabis. Declan Hewson, 29, had visited the police station on July 21, 2024, to report an incident in which a person had thrown something at his Black Audi Q5 during a confrontation on the road.
Police Smell Cannabis During Routine Report
The incident took place around 9:00 p.m., when Hewson arrived at the police station in Malinsgate. Sara Beddow, the prosecutor, told Telford Magistrates Court that officers immediately detected the smell of cannabis on Hewson as he entered the station. He was asked to undergo a blood test, which Hewson fully cooperated with.
The results of the test revealed a blood THC level of 6.7 micrograms per liter, far above the legal limit of 2 micrograms per liter for cannabis driving.
Court Proceedings and Penalties
Hewson pleaded guilty to drug-driving. He was fined £200 and also received a 12-month driving ban as a result of the conviction.
In court, Hewson’s defense argued that he had used cannabis a few days prior to the incident, but the blood test indicated that the substance was still in his system at the time he visited the police station.
Cannabis and Driving: Legal Limits in the UK
Cannabis use is legal for medical purposes in the UK but remains prohibited for recreational use. The law strictly limits the amount of cannabis in a driver’s bloodstream. A blood level of 2 micrograms per liter is the legal threshold for THC, and anything above that can lead to a drug-driving charge.
A Cautionary Tale for Drivers
Hewson’s case serves as a reminder of the risks associated with driving after consuming cannabis, even if it’s consumed days before. Cannabis can remain in a person’s system for longer periods than many realize, and even trace amounts can lead to legal trouble if a driver is caught under the influence.
