Norwich City's Shane Duffy banned for drink driving crash

The 32-year-old Republic of Ireland international was arrested in Hethersett on May 6 while almost three times over the limit. 

The crash, at around 9pm, involved his matte black top of the range Range Rover Autobiography worth upwards of £123,000 and a Ford Fiesta parked on Norwich Road, near to the Queen's Head pub.

Norwich defender Shane Duffy was arrested at the scene following a crash in Hethersett in May (Image: PA)

Appearing in the dock at Norwich Magistrates’ Court the defender spoke only to confirm his name and personal details and to plead guilty to drink driving, an alternative to the initial charge of driving while unfit. 

READ MORE: Shane Duffy has been charged with drink driving after crash

Rima Begum, prosecuting, said police called to a crash had found him at the scene and that he had admitted to officers that he was drunk. 

He blew 102mg of alcohol during a breath test, almost three times the legal limit of 35.

It was aggravated by his actions having caused him to crash and a previous drunk driving conviction nine years ago that meant he faced a mandatory 36 month ban, she added. 

Duffy's damaged Range Rover at the scene of the crash in the centre of Hethersett (Image: Newsquest) The damaged Ford Fiesta he crashed into while drink driving (Image: Newsquest)

No one was injured in the collision but wreckage from both damaged vehicles was left scattered across the road with the Fiesta left crushed against a wall. 

The incident took place 48 hours after the Canaries' final game of the regular season - a defeat to Birmingham City - and just days before the play-off tie against Leeds United.

Chris Brown, mitigating, said: “He apologises to all those involved, anyone affected by his behaviour and the wider community.

“His remorse and apology is real. He offers no excuses and recognises things need to change.”

Shane Duffy leaving Norwich Magistrates' Court after his sentencing (Image: Newsquest)

He said following the crash Duffy had stayed at the scene and asked local householders to take his car keys off him and call the police.

“There is a perception that someone before you having certain privileges in life and financial status causes an arrogance and denial of responsibility, that is not the case here,” said Mr Brown. 

READ MORE: Photos show damage of crash involving Norwich's Shane Duffy

He had already willingly paid the costs of the damage and compensation to the inconvenience of the other car’s owner without waiting for an insurance pay out, he added. 

“As a professional sportsman he takes his role and responsibilities in the community seriously.”

Magistrates banned him from driving for three years, fined him £25,000 and ordered he pay  £2,000 victim surcharge and £85 court costs.

Norwich City said defender Shane Duffy would now face internal disciplinary proceedings (Image: PA)

The defender has been a regular in the City side since signing from Fulham in the summer.

He previously played for Everton, Celtic, Burnley, Blackburn and Brighton.

He made 40 appearances last season, scoring once.

In a statement the club said: “Norwich City notes today’s decision at Norwich Magistrates’ Court regarding one of its first team players, Shane Duffy.

“Now that the legal proceedings have concluded, the club will now progress with its own internal disciplinary process.”