Drunk driver 'spread corruption on the Earth', Abu Dhabi court hears

ABU DHABI // A motorist who was under the influence of drink and drugs crashed into six cars injuring the driver of each vehicle, a court heard today.

FG, an Emirati, was driving recklessly at 120kph when he began bumping into vehicles on both his right and left sides "spreading corruption on the Earth", said Chief Justice Sayed Abdulbaseer at the Criminal Court.

He confessed to crashing into the cars and admitted drinking alcohol, but denied being under the influence of drugs, and said he had not meant to cause the injuries.

His defence lawyer said he was young and had no drug convictions, so should be referred to rehabilitation if found guilty.

"Even states make mistakes, so it is natural for humans to commit mistakes too," said the lawyer.

The court clerk confirmed to the judge that the man had no convictions. "Even so, what you did was horrible," said the chief justice.

The man then asked to see his mother "for five minutes", but the judge refused.

"You know why I said 'no'? The court has three hearts and it is more merciful with you than your own mother, but what you have done is not easy. You were spreading corruption on the Earth."

The man replied: "But I admit my mistake and the best of sinners are those who repent and I assure you I have repented."

The chief justice then relented and agreed to let him see his mother.

A verdict is expected on September 9.