WILLEMSTAD — A 20-year-old intern from the Netherlands has been fined for driving under the influence of alcohol on Curaçao. The court imposed a penalty of 1,200 guilders, of which 500 guilders are conditional, after the young man, identified as D.H., was caught during a routine traffic check.
Police officers noted that D.H. smelled strongly of alcohol and was carrying a bottle. A breathalyzer test confirmed their suspicions, revealing a blood alcohol level of nearly 1.0 promille, almost double the legal limit of 0.5.
During the hearing, D.H. admitted he was on the island for an internship and had consumed five glasses of vodka at a nightlife venue prior to driving.
The Public Prosecutor emphasized in court that a significant number of traffic accidents on the island are alcohol-related. Fatalities caused by drunk driving in recent years have led to stricter enforcement and more frequent roadside checks.
Although the standard fine for such offenses ranges between 1,000 and 1,500 guilders, the prosecutor recommended a reduced amount of 1,200 guilders, which the judge accepted, citing the intern's cooperation and relatively young age.
Second Offender: 50-Year-Old Man Drank Whisky Before Driving
In a separate case, a 50-year-old man, identified as F.R., was also convicted of drunk driving. He admitted in court that he had consumed several glasses of whisky at a birthday celebration. F.R. said he felt tired but did not believe he was intoxicated at the time.
According to the police report, F.R. had red, glassy eyes and was barely able to stand. Multiple attempts to administer a breathalyzer test failed.
The judge addressed F.R. sternly in court, stressing the dangers that impaired driving poses to both the driver and others on the road. The Public Prosecutor demanded a fine of 1,250 guilders, with 750 conditional, and the court fully upheld the demand.
These cases reflect a broader crackdown on drunk driving in Curaçao, where authorities are taking a hard stance in an effort to reduce road accidents and fatalities.
