A DRINK driver passed the car key to a passenger when stopped by police, Island magistrates heard yesterday (14).

James Michael Davis, 33, of Winchester Close, Sandown, admitted driving with an alcohol level of 68 microgrammes in breath, when the legal limit is 35, on April 28.

He also admitted driving without insurance, driving without an MoT, and driving without a licence.

Ann Smout, prosecuting, said Davis was caught in the early hours of the morning after the police were made aware that the car had no tax or MoT.

They found it parked near Planet Ice on Ryde seafront, and watched as five people got in and drove away.

Officers stopped the vehicle at East Hill Road and approached the driver. It was Davis, although he had passed the key to the front passenger.

Mrs Smout said Davis had been sentenced to 42 months in prison for supplying cocaine in 2015.

Barry Arnett, for Davis, said his client had been working, self-employed, since leaving prison. He admitted full culpability when the offences were put to him.

Davis was disqualified from driving for 17 months. He was fined £180 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £30 surcharge.

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