A mother who was driving under the influence of alcohol with two young children in her car has avoided jail time despite being nearly four times over the legal limit. Kirsty Jones, 36, from Abbeyvale Drive in Belle Vale, was observed driving recklessly on local roads after consuming a significant amount of alcohol at a pub, according to testimony presented at Liverpool Crown Court.
A police officer noticed Jones driving a Vauxhall Corsa on Naylorsfield Road turning onto Naylorsfield Drive around 10 pm on June 11, following reports of her erratic driving. Upon stopping her, the officer immediately detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from Jones. It was reported that a concerned member of the public had alerted Merseyside police about Jones, mentioning that she had consumed alcohol and had children in the car.
The officer found two unrestrained children, aged three and two, in the back seat of the vehicle. Jones, accompanied by a male passenger, showed visible signs of intoxication, including slurred speech and unsteadiness on her feet. She cooperated with the officer’s request for a breath sample, which revealed a breath alcohol level of 138mg, significantly exceeding the legal limit of 35mg.
Jones admitted guilt to charges of driving under the influence, being drunk while responsible for children, and driving with unrestrained children. She also acknowledged violating a suspended sentence received in April 2025 for involvement in theft conspiracy.
During the court proceedings, Jones expressed remorse for her actions, apologizing and showing emotional distress. Her defense attorney, Ms. Megan Cox, highlighted Jones’ challenging past, including experiences of violence in previous relationships and struggles with alcohol misuse and mental health issues. Cox emphasized Jones’ efforts to rehabilitate herself, citing her active participation in alcohol and drug services, counseling sessions, and engagement with various support programs.
In the sentencing phase, Judge Gary Woodhall acknowledged the severity of Jones’ offenses, noting the potential harm posed to the children. Despite considering the possibility of immediate imprisonment, the judge opted to suspend Jones’ 14-week prison sentence for 12 months. As part of the sentence, Jones is required to complete rehabilitation activities and an alcohol treatment program. Additionally, her prior suspended sentence was extended by three months to ensure compliance with the court’s directives.
