Worthing drink-driver deliberately hit pedestrian after social distancing row

Police said Philip Forrest, 42, was involved in a row over social distancing at The Three Fishes in Chapel Road on the evening of Saturday, October 10, 2020.

Forrest, who was drinking, had to be reminded on ‘multiple occasions’ by staff to comply with coronavirus regulations, police said.

"This included not wearing a mask and getting too close to other patrons,” a police spokesperson said.

"During the evening, he had an altercation with another man in the pub, which continued outside on the street.”

The carpenter, of Ivydore Avenue, Worthing, punched the 55-year-old victim in the face and then ‘made off from the scene on foot’, police said.

The spokesperson added: “Shortly afterwards, the victim was walking on the opposite side of the road, close to the junction with Liverpool Gardens, when a white Vauxhall Combo van came around the corner, mounted the kerb and struck him.

“This caused him to fall to the floor, causing serious injuries including a broken arm.

“The van failed to stop, however witnesses described the suspect from the earlier assault having mentioned he intended to go to the Golden Lion pub in The Strand, Durrington.”

This, police said, is where the same vehicle was found by officers and Forrest was found drinking at the bar.

He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving with 69mcg of alcohol per 100ml of breath in his system – the legal limit being 35mcg - dangerous driving and committing grievous bodily harm.

Police said Forrest pleaded guilty to all three offences and was sentenced to ten years and nine months’ imprisonment at Lewes Crown Court on May 6.

He must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence, police said.

He was also disqualified from driving for ten years and seven months.

Investigating officer Lucy Hailes said: “The victim in this case had stuck up for another group who took offence to Forrest’s lack of respect for social distancing restrictions in the pub. Shortly afterwards, he was assaulted outside the pub and then deliberately run over by him, causing serious injuries.

“These were the actions of a mindless and dangerous criminal who also consciously got behind the wheel of his vehicle knowing he was well over the legal drink-drive limit.

“In police interview, Forrest claimed he punched the victim in self-defence and suggested the man stepped out in front of his vehicle, causing the collision.

"His account was not supported by either of the witnesses or CCTV footage.

"He also stated he had consumed several drinks at the Golden Lion before his arrest, suggesting he had not driven while over the limit. But again, his account was not supported by staff who served him.

“Forrest took no responsibility for his actions and has expressed no remorse throughout.

"He was even dismissive of the risks of drink-driving, claiming that blowing 69mcg was ‘no big deal’ and adding that he had blown 140mcg on a previous occasion.”

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