A DISQUALIFIED driver who was seen wiping his nostrils in front of cops was found to be drink and drug driving.

Malcolm Allan, from Castlemilk, was asked to pull over by police officers on November 14 last year.

A sample of breath he provided tested positive for cannabis and cocaine.

On Wednesday, the 33-year-old appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court for sentencing after previously pleading guilty to driving whilst disqualified, and whilst unfit through drink and drugs.

Glasgow Times:

The procurator fiscal depute said: “At 5.40pm, police on mobile patrol on Carmunnock Road had cause to stop the vehicle and did so.

“As they approached the vehicle, they observed the accused in the driver’s seat. Police could detect a strong smell of cannabis and the accused was informed to turn off the engine and exit the vehicle.

“As he walked to the pavement, he wiped his nostrils. He was detained for a search, and he was found to be a disqualified driver.

“He was arrested and handcuffed and conveyed to the marked police vehicle. He provided a breath sample to which he tested positive for cannabis and cocaine.”

Cops took Allan to Cathcart police office where he also provided two samples of blood.

His lawyer stated that it was his client’s position that he had taken the drugs days before he was pulled over.

But Sheriff Paul Brown replied: “It states in the narrative that he was wiping his nostrils as he exited the vehicle, which suggests he had been taking it on the day.”

The defence solicitor said: “This is an interference which is disputed by the accused. He is adamant that he hadn’t taken the substances on the day, but in the days before.

“His personal circumstances at the time were very difficult. He was stressed,which caused significant alcohol consumption, and when he drinks he takes drugs.

“He didn’t believe that he was unfit to drive, but accepts that he was. He accepts that he was disqualified and made the poor decision to drive. Alcohol and drugs are something he needs help with.

“A custodial sentence may be on the forefront of your mind, but my submission is that a community-based disposal is appropriate.”

The lawyer suggested that if a community payback order was imposed on Allan, it would allow him to engage with social work in relation to his alcohol issues.

But Sheriff Brown said: “Given your record and the nature of the offence, I see no alternative to a custodial sentence.”

Allan was sentenced to six months in prison and disqualified from driving for 52 months.