Drink-driver and partner arrested in Pas de la Casa after assaulting police

Police in Pas de la Casa arrested a 44-year-old non-resident man early Wednesday after a breathalyser test revealed an alcohol level of 1.72 grams per litre of blood. His 38-year-old female companion, also a non-resident, was detained with him for aggressive behaviour toward officers.

The incident began around 3am when officers on routine patrol noticed a French-registered car with four occupants. The driver repeatedly sounded the horn and accelerated, causing disturbances in the quiet early hours. During the check, police observed signs of alcohol impairment. Informed that his reading exceeded double the detention limit and that he would be held, tensions rose.

Once inside the patrol vehicle, the man insulted and threatened officers while damaging a door and window, with repair costs estimated at €3,288. His partner reacted aggressively, insulting and threatening police, disobeying instructions, and resisting arrest, suffering a minor hand injury in the process. Even restrained, the driver kicked out, shattering a window.

The man faced charges including endangering public safety by drink-driving, damaging public property, disobeying authority, threats, and assaulting officers. The woman was charged with disobedience, threats, and assault.

They appeared before a judge that afternoon via fast-track proceedings and received conditional sentences plus fines. Officers later escorted them to the border for expulsion from Andorra.

Police expressed regret that a standard control escalated into major disruption. The force also reported other drink-driving arrests that week: a 58-year-old at 1.30 g/l, a 40-year-old at 1.25 g/l, and a 53-year-old at 2.16 g/l. Separately, a 35-year-old tourist was detained early Wednesday for refusing alcohol or toxicological tests.