A man was sent to the DUI court yesterday after his fifth drink driving-related charge in 11 years.

Suleyman Bashir, 34, pleaded guilty in Magistrates’ Court to refusal to take a breath test.

The court heard that police stopped Bashir’s car on Crow Lane, near Hamilton, for speeding.

The officers suspected Bashir of drink-driving, arrested him and took him to Hamilton police station for a breath test.

Bashir at first agreed to take a test. He was offered three opportunities in three hours to take the test, but refused.

The incident happened in the early hours of October 26.

The court heard that the charge was one of a string of drink driving-related incidents since 2010, with Bashir’s most recent conviction in 2018.

Bashir, from Warwick, apologised to the court and admitted that his actions were “inexcusable”.

He also asked to take part in the DUI court treatment programme.

Magistrate Tyrone Chin referred him to the specialist court and adjourned the case until January 4.

He also released Suleyman on $500 bail and ordered him to stay off the road until further notice.

Mr Chin said: “You are very fortunate to have not injured yourself or others yet.”

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