An Inglewood truck driver caught driving with amphetamines in his system has argued he had only taken cold and flu tablets.
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David Davis, 50, pleaded guilty in the Bendigo Magistrates Court on Thursday to one charge of drug-driving.
But he said he hadn’t taken any illegal drugs at the time he was caught, only four Sudafed.
The court heard Davis was driving a tip truck along Holdsworth Road, Bendigo, on May 5 when he was intercepted by police about 9.45am.
Prosecutor Senior Sergeant Brett Sheppard said Davis underwent a drug test that was positive for methylamphetamine.
“He gave no admissions to consuming an illicit drug,” Senior Sergeant Sheppard said.
“He said he had taken four tablets of Sudafed cold and flu medication.”
In court Davis, representing himself, stood by this story, saying he had a cold at the time.
Davis said he was a truck driver and had lost his job waiting on the outcome of the case.
Magistrate Jennifer Tregent said she was sceptical of Davis’ claim and knew that truck drivers took drugs to stay awake on long trips.
Ms Tregent imposed a $500 fine and disqualified Davis from driving for six months.
“That fine is less than I would give to a drink-driver,” she said.