Belgian acquitted of drunk driving due to rare auto-brewery syndrome
A Belgian man has been cleared of drunk driving charges after medical confirmation of his auto-brewery syndrome (ABS). Auto-brewery syndrome, an uncommon condition, causes the body to produce high levels of alcohol, leading to symptoms resembling alcohol intoxication.
ABS, also known as gut fermentation syndrome, poses a challenge for doctors due to its manifestation of typical drunken behaviors such as impaired speech and movement.
While not congenital, ABS is more common in individuals with underlying gastrointestinal issues.Anse Ghesquiere, the man’s legal representative, stated that her client’s employment at a brewery added an ironic twist to the situation.
However, three separate medical evaluations confirmed his ABS diagnosis. The 40-year-old was initially convicted of drunk driving in 2019, unaware of his condition at the time. Subsequent incidents in April and May 2022 led to further legal scrutiny, despite the absence of alcohol consumption.
Following medical confirmation of ABS, the judge ruled in favor of the defendant, noting the absence of intoxication symptoms.
No driving ban was imposed, but the defendant must undertake preventive measures such as dietary adjustments or utilizing an alcolock to avoid future legal repercussions in case of failed breath tests.
