January 26, (THEWILL) – Newcastle United midfielder, Joelinton, has been slammed with a 12-month driving ban and fined £29,000 after pleading guilty to drink-driving.
The 26-year-old Brazilian was arrested on January 12th on Ponteland Road, Newcastle, after police pulled over his 2022-plate Mercedes G-Wagen. A breathalyser test revealed that Joelinton had 43 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, above the legal limit of 35.
In a hearing at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court, district judge Paul Currer handed the player the 12-month ban from driving, which could be reduced to nine months if Joelinton completes a rehabilitation course. The fine was calculated based on Joelinton’s weekly wage from Newcastle United, which was revealed to be £43,000 per week. The midfielder must also pay a £2,000 surcharge and £85 costs.
Joelinton’s guilty plea, compliance with police officers, and remorse were taken into account by the judge. “You placed yourself in real jeopardy and it could have had disastrous consequences for the lives of others,” he told the player. “I sincerely hope you have learned from this mistake and we don’t see you in this court again.”
Although the Brazilian will continue to feature for Newcastle United, Joelinton’s barrister informed the court that the player would face disciplinary proceedings within the club itself.
