Belgian man acquitted of drunk-driving charges due to rare condition
A man from Belgium who was diagnosed with a rare condition known as auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), has been acquitted of drunk-driving charges. His attorney, Anse Ghesquiere, confirmed the news on Monday. Ghesquiere explained that her client's body naturally produces alcohol due to ABS. Interestingly, the defendant works in a brewery. His identity remains undisclosed due to local legal practices.
Defendant showed no signs of being under the influence
The defendant's ABS diagnosis was confirmed by three independent medical professionals. The judge presiding over the case noted that the defendant showed no signs of being under the influence, as reported by local media outlets. The Bruges police court, which acquitted the man, has not yet commented on this unique case.
Symptoms of ABS can mimic those of alcohol intoxication
Lisa Florin, a clinical biologist at AZ Sint-Lucas hospital in Belgium, provided insight into ABS. She explained that people with this condition produce alcohol similar to what's found in alcoholic drinks but typically experience fewer effects. Florin clarified that ABS is not inherited but can develop in people who have another gut-related disorder. Symptoms of ABS can mimic those of alcohol intoxication such as impaired speech, unsteady movement, loss of motor skills, dizziness and excessive burping.
