Former Labour MSP Colin Smyth, 53, will stand trial in November on charges of causing multiple crashes in central Edinburgh while driving under the influence of alcohol. The allegations stem from an incident on November 2 last year, when Smyth is said to have been more than double the legal alcohol limit.
Details of the Alleged Offences
According to the charges, Smyth drove dangerously on the city’s High Street and other locations. He is accused of mounting a pavement, narrowly missing a pedestrian, and colliding with a parked car while driving at excessive speed. Additionally, he allegedly crashed into electric bollards directly outside City Chambers, repeatedly got in and out of the vehicle, and revved the engine.
Smyth, who served as a South Scotland MSP, is also charged with failing to report the incident to police “as soon as reasonably practicable.”
Court Appearance and Trial Date
During a brief hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, Sheriff Iain Nicol set a trial date for November 27. Smyth, dressed in a dark grey suit and red tie, spoke only to confirm his name. He is ordained to appear in court again on the trial date.
