David Warner Fined AU$1500 for Drink Driving, Ordered to Install Interlock Device

Cricketer David Warner has been fined AU$1500 and is required to install an interlock device in his vehicle following a mid-range drink driving conviction. The sentence was handed down on Tuesday after Warner pleaded guilty to driving with a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit on Easter Sunday.

The incident occurred as Warner was traveling home from a family function after consuming three glasses of wine. As he approached a random breath-testing site, he attempted to switch seats with a female passenger. Upon being identified as the driver, Warner complied with police testing.

Judge Clare Farnan noted that the presence of Warner’s children in the car at the time of the offence aggravated the situation. The judge also stated that any damage to Warner’s public image was a foreseeable consequence of his global profile, dismissing the defense’s argument that media coverage had already punished him.

Warner’s barrister, Awais Ahmad, asserted that the ramifications of the conviction could significantly impact Warner’s professional opportunities, particularly in T20 leagues in countries with a “non-drinking culture,” such as India and Bangladesh. He criticized the NSW Police for issuing a press release regarding the arrest, questioning the necessity of such a public disclosure.

During the court proceedings, it was acknowledged that Warner’s position as captain of the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League was at risk due to the incident. The Thunder, in conjunction with rival Sydney Sixers, is involved in a state government campaign aimed at discouraging drink driving.

Cricket NSW, which manages the Thunder, stated their commitment to safe driving education for players. In remarks addressing social media backlash directed at Warner and his family, Judge Farnan emphasized the need for public deterrent measures regarding drink driving. She expressed her belief that while Warner is unlikely to reoffend, the issue remains a considerable factor in accidents in New South Wales.

Following the conviction, Warner will be eligible for driving after applying for an interlock license, which will necessitate fitting a device that detects alcohol before the vehicle can start. This device must remain in his car for one year.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn