Published Tuesday, 04 September 2012
Mr Black was banned from driving for one year. (© UTV)
Allistair Black was disqualified for 12 months for getting behind the wheel after drinking on a night out.
The 53-year-old, from Gilford, Co Armagh, was arrested near the Shore Road, Newtownabbey as he returned from a function on 29 April.
He pleaded guilty to a charge of driving with excess alcohol.
Belfast Magistrates' Court was told Black served as a police officer for 25 years before leaving to work in the security industry.
His lawyer said he had taken drink while out for dinner with his wife.
Black thought the three-course meal and the passage of time meant it was then safe to drive, it was claimed.
"With his previous profession he was extremely embarrassed and traumatised by the events, having to be taken to a police station," his solicitor added.
As well as banning him from driving for one year, Judge Fiona Bagnall also imposed a £250 fine.