SINGAPORE – In a gripping case that has sent shockwaves through the community, Rachel Yeo Tingru, a 36-year-old woman, was sentenced to two weeks in jail and fined $9,000 for driving under the influence.

This alarming incident took place on March 2 when Yeo drove into the Woodlands Checkpoint with nearly four times the legal limit of alcohol in her system.

Court documents revealed that Yeo had a staggering concentration of 130 microgrammes of alcohol per 100ml of breath, far exceeding the legal limit of 35 microgrammes.

As reported by the police prosecutor, the night began with Yeo consuming two to three glasses of wine at a Dempsey establishment before purchasing more alcohol at a convenience store while with a friend.

After drinking less than half a can of alcohol, Yeo made the fateful decision to drive home to Eunos but took a wrong turn, ending up at the Woodlands Checkpoint.

Things took a dramatic turn as she interacted with an immigration officer while still in her vehicle.

Suddenly, her car surged forward and mounted the kerb, captured on security footage that was presented in court.

The prosecution highlighted that Yeo's hands were off the wheel at the time, indicating a lack of control over her vehicle.

Fortunately, the incident did not lead to a collision with other vehicles or harm to the officer nearby, although the potential for disaster was immense.

After failing a breathalyser test at the checkpoint, Yeo was arrested and charged with driving without due care and attention, along with drink driving.

The prosecution emphasized the severity of her actions, acknowledging the 'heightened potential harm' that could have resulted from her reckless behavior.

'Her alcohol level was 3.7 times the prescribed legal limit, indicating a serious unfitness to drive,' the prosecutor asserted.

In her defense, attorney Mitchell Leon argued that Yeo was in a state of panic and distress.

Claiming that the surge of the car was an involuntary reaction compounded by the anxiety of being at a checkpoint without her passport.

'This carelessness stemmed from an emotional reflex rather than mere intoxication,' Leon stated in mitigation.

Yeo's sentence, which takes effect on January 3, serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of drunk driving.

With the holiday season around the corner, authorities are urging the public to prioritize safety and avoid the dangers of impaired driving.

The incident raises crucial questions about responsible alcohol consumption and the overarching need for awareness in the community.

Will this case serve as a wake-up call, or are we destined to see more reckless behavior on the roads? Stay tuned for updates.