A COKED-UP paramedic has been fired after crashing an ambulance on a 999 call while almost five times the legal limit.
Colin Steward, pictured above, was only spared jail due to his “exemplary” record and his life-saving during his career.
Steward, 54, was tested for drugs after crashing the ambulance — its blue lights flashing — on the A34 in Burnage, Manchester, on August 28 last year. Three people were treated in hospital.
In each litre of blood, he had 240mcg of benzoylecgonine, a compound produced when cocaine breaks down.
The legal limit is 50mcg. Steward admitted drug driving and appeared before Manchester JPs for sentence.
Chair of the bench, Brendon Hart, said in “normal circumstances” he would be jailed.
Sparing him, he said: “You have served the community and probably saved a number of lives.
“Whatever the reason that caused your spiral downwards it is no excuse.”
Steward, of Altrincham, Gtr Manchester, was given a 18-month community order, including 100 hours’ unpaid work, plus a 28-month drive ban.
North West Ambulance Service said Steward’s conduct was “completely unacceptable”.
A spokesman added: “He no longer works for the organisation.”
It is understood Steward was sacked and is now unemployed.
STEVE ALLENColin Steward crashed an ambulance on a 999 call while almost five times the legal limit[/caption] Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
