EastEnders actor Shane Richie has pleaded not guilty to a drink-driving charge. The 62-year-old, best known for playing Alfie Moon in the long-running soap, appeared by video-link before Colchester Magistrates’ Court on September 9 under his real name Shane Roche.
Arrest and allegations
Richie, of Tadworth, Surrey, is accused of driving a white Hyundai car in Church Langley Way, Harlow, Essex while above the legal alcohol limit on July 29. He is alleged to have provided a breath sample of 65 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, above the legal limit of 35 micrograms.
Prosecuting, Vladimir Silea said police attended a Tesco petrol station in Church Langley Way at 11.15pm on July 29, where Richie was arrested and taken to Harlow police station. Officers “commenced the drink and drug driving procedure” at the station, and the lower reading provided was 65 micrograms.
Court appearance and bail
On Wednesday, Richie spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and address and entered his plea of not guilty. He briefly dropped off the video-link, and when the connection was re-established he apologised to the judge, saying: “Sorry, I’m in a hotel up north.”
Deputy District Judge Christopher Maynard bailed Richie until November 17 2027, when he is due to stand trial at the same court. At the end of the hearing, Richie said “take care, bye bye” before disconnecting from the link.
Career background
Richie, who came fourth on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2020, has hosted a number of TV game shows and appeared in pantomimes.
