A 25‑year‑old US Air Force aircraft engine mechanic based at RAF Mildenhall has been handed a 12‑month driving ban after pleading guilty to driving while over the legal alcohol limit at Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on 24 July.
Stop on the A1101 led to breath tests
Colin Packer was pulled over at about 1.50am on 23 May while driving a red Audi A3 on the A1101 at Icklingham, close to Bury St Edmunds, because officers had concerns about his speed. A roadside breath test returned a positive result and a subsequent test at Bury St Edmunds Police Station recorded 42 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.
The legal limit for breath is 35 micrograms, a level the magistrates described as on the “very lower end” above the limit.
“I felt fit and well to drive.”
In mitigation, the court heard Packer had been socialising with friends earlier and had consumed four pints over about five hours. His defence also said a change in the speed limit from 60mph to 30mph contributed to the speeding, as he did not brake quickly enough. The defendant was reported to have fully cooperated with officers and to be of previous good character.
Penalties and consequences
Magistrates imposed the statutory 12‑month driving disqualification. They noted the ban could be reduced if Packer successfully completes an accredited drink‑drive rehabilitation course. The court also issued fines and costs totalling £925, payable by monthly instalments of £200.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fine | £600 |
| Victim surcharge | £240 |
| Prosecution costs | £85 |
| Total | £925 |
Magistrates told the defendant: “We wish you well. We don’t want to see you back here.” The hearing record also states that the USAF has already revoked his driving privileges.
Local context and road safety
Incidents involving drink‑driving continue to be a concern on Suffolk’s rural roads, where changes in limits and reduced visibility overnight can increase risk. The A1101 carries a mix of local and long‑distance traffic, and police activity on these routes focuses on speeding and impairment checks to reduce collisions.
- Breath‑test legal limit: 35 micrograms per 100ml of breath
- Recorded level in this case: 42 micrograms
- Mandatory minimum disqualification: 12 months (may be reduced after a rehabilitation course)
The court record notes Packer’s employment with the US Air Force as an aircraft engine mechanic but gives no further detail on any additional disciplinary measures beyond the reported revocation of driving privileges by his employer.
Drivers in Suffolk are reminded that even when readings are only marginally over the legal limit, the legal and personal consequences can be significant, including fines, loss of licence and potential employment implications.
